Backcountry Pilot • Looking for a tailwheel fork, and some operating tips

Looking for a tailwheel fork, and some operating tips

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Looking for a tailwheel fork, and some operating tips

I took my 3200 Scott/AB tailwheel apart to service and paint it, and found that the part of the fork casting that holds the compression spring in has broken off. I also found three spacers in the slot, while the drawing only shows two. It was rebuilt in Oregon before Alaska Airframes bought them.

Image

Not sure what to do, I'd like a Baby Bushwheel, but I guess I am looking for a regular fork in the meantime. If anyone has one for sale please email me at [email protected]

Maybe I'll just use this as an excuse to get the BB.

I'd also like some basic tailwheel care instruction. Could I have done this by pushing the plane backwards and the tailwheel unlocking? I have done this a couple of times backing away from a fuel pump, and it makes a nasty bang. I guess I should have been unlocking it in a forward direction and then pushing backwards, but I was lazy.

Any help appreciated.
daedaluscan offline
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Re: Looking for a tailwheel fork, and some operating tips

Sutton Aircraft Salvage has always been a great source for finding used parts. Give Dave a call or email.. He might have what your after. Prices are reasonable.

Sutton Aircraft Salvage
(907) 745-6969
[email protected]
akgreg offline
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Re: Looking for a tailwheel fork, and some operating tips

I've owned/maintained 5 different tandem TW AC over the years with Scott 3200s and always push backwards with TW doing a 180 like you're describing with never your problem. I don't think it is your procedure. But, my AC were all lighter tandem planes: American Champions to Super Cub.
Just OH'd our Champ Scott 3200- parts from Univair and the new tension springs were slightly too large so used old springs. Works fine. They are kind of complicated little units.
Jack
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Re: Looking for a tailwheel fork, and some operating tips

I have a standard fork I would part with but I won't be back at my hangar until the end of the month. If you are still looking then, let me know.

I also push the plane backwards with that loud "snap" when it unlocks. I haven't had a problem doing that but I dunno... maybe it's not good for it.
kg offline
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Re: Looking for a tailwheel fork, and some operating tips

If I can help you easily get one to you from the US, let me know. I could always meet you in Lynden. Sorry for your troubles
jugheadF15 offline
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Re: Looking for a tailwheel fork, and some operating tips

Thanks John, these really are 1st world troubles!! I should come down and fly with you though.

"I have a standard fork I would part with but I won't be back at my hangar until the end of the month. If you are still looking then, let me know."

will do, but I think that Akgreg's advice of Sutton is going to work out, Im talking to Dave later and he says he has one.

Thanks for the help.
daedaluscan offline
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Re: Looking for a tailwheel fork, and some operating tips

I've got a mailbox in Blaine you can use. I usually go down once a week. Let me know if you want to use it.

Allan
albravo offline
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Re: Looking for a tailwheel fork, and some operating tips

FWIW a replacement standard fork is $340 from Airframes Alaska.
A wide fork kit with a baby BW is $1145,
or considerably less with a glider tire.

https://www.airframesalaska.com/Scott-3 ... fk3200.htm
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