I have a '56 180 and would like to go to a larger and possably softer tailwheel. I am aware of XP and have gotten a price of $4K fromTom, just for parts. A little pricey for me. I can do an AK Bush tailwheel for about $!K. Sounds like it might do the job, but I would like to here from those that have already been through this so that I get it right te first time. I can afford that. What I would like to know is, is there anyone here who has experience with the AK Bush tailweels and what do you think. Feel free to PM me if you prefer. Thanks Gary

Nothing better. Questions? 503 201 8623

I've installed a few of the GarAero tundra tailwheels and everyone's really happy with them here. I guess the big thing is if your local FSDO will give you the field approval or not.
I must admit, I do like the AK Bushwheel's added side clearance from the fork to the tire, though.
JH

Hi John and thanks for the input. I think Ak Bush either took over or copied the Garaero so they should be pretty much the same. AkBush has an stc. available for the 180's so the conversion is easy. I have a tailwheel lock and I need to check and see if I need to give that up to have the Bush tailwheel. I guess even if I do it would be a fair trade. Thanks again Gary

The Bushwheel is not a copy of the GarAero. I have the GarAero. It is a decent product, but the added side clearance makes a big plus for the Bush Wheel. I have ruined a few rims in just the past two years and one tire, as rocks shear through the narrower clearance on the gar aero. Those with Bushwheels have not had this problem. Also, the tire itself undoubtedly absorbs more shock than the tires that go on the GarAero. One other thing: I think the folks over at AK Bushwheels have tweaked the geometry on their yoke/spring attachment to help prevent wobbles. If you can not tell: I wish I had a baby bushwheel kit.

Chet

Thanks Chet Good info. Gary

That was kind of what I was figuring, Chet. That extra side clearance looks like a good deal. AK's price certainly isn't out of line, from what I've seen, and especially when you factor in the STC..... I just haven't had the opportunity to try one yet!
JH

Hey guy's--

Our Tailwheel STC on the 180's and 185's don't require the 26" or larger mains and it will work with the locker.


Sorry I got here so late...

Thanks Wup I should be getting an order into you sometime in the next couple weeks. Are there any discounts offered to BCP/180 club members? Thanks ary

jmtgt wrote:

Hottshot wrote:
Sorry I got here so late...

YOUR FIRED!

I QUIT!!

Jr.CubBuilder wrote:

Hottshot wrote:Hey guy's--

Our Tailwheel STC on the 180's and 185's don't require the 26" or larger mains and it will work with the locker.


Sorry I got here so late...

You might want to edit the page 3200TundraTailwheel.htm I was going to get one of your BBWs last year but that stopped me. I'll be calling as soon as I recover from my engine conversion.

Read --3200TundraTailwheel.htm

3400 Series Tailwheel don't need 26's

jmtgt wrote:

Hottshot wrote:

I QUIT!!

Cool if you quit I do not have to pay you un-employment. WHHHEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!

I have withdrawn that statement...

We wouldn't let you quit even if you wanted to.
How about the Maule series tail wheel with out the 26"'s. In light of the fact that I am going to replace the spring now.

Kurt--

They still need the 26" tires but who knows what the future holds...

Kurt, how's your new environment been treating you so far? Haven't heard much about how you & your crew are doing since your move north.

Eric

Jr.CubBuilder wrote:

Hottshot wrote:

Read --3200TundraTailwheel.htm

3400 Series Tailwheel don't need 26's

Jr.CubBuilder wrote:Ahhh bummer, my bad, that makes no sense though. Back to the same dilemma, BWs?....STOL kit?....BWs?....STOL kit?

Silly wabbit Bushwheels ARE a STOL KIT!!!!

Considering buying an AK Baby Bushwheel for my '56 180 but am concerned about longevity on pavement. My flying these days is mostly pavement and I'm not too excited about paying $420 for a replacement tire. Can anyone easy my longevity concerns?

pnb987pb wrote:Considering buying an AK Baby Bushwheel for my '56 180 but am concerned about longevity on pavement. My flying these days is mostly pavement and I'm not too excited about paying $420 for a replacement tire. Can anyone easy my longevity concerns?

I just went through this same decision-making process. The super nice folks at AK Bushwheel will sell you a tubed tire that fits the Baby Bushwheel fork and has the same dimensions as the Baby Bushwheel for (I believe) $60. It will give you the same flotation as the softer wheel, but obviously not the same uh, cushion, as the "real" baby bushwheel.

I decided to just get a standard replacement tailwheel assembly for now, and get the second, wider fork for when that money tree in our backyard starts bearing fruit and I get 29" bushwheels for the mains.

That's exactly what I've been waiting for!!! Thank you!

Why don't they list that on their website????!!!!!!?????

You know how it is, All you got to do is KEEP IT UP!
And it won't wear out
GT