When I completed the rebuild of my 1955 C170B, I installed a set of Cessna Wheel Spats that were optional equipment for the C188 AgPlane. Since then, I have had many owners ask about them.
They work as designed with tires up to 8.50 and are compatible with Federal AWB wheel skis. They have a total weight of 4 pounds. The fenders are made of a tough ABS plastic. There is a stamped metal frame bonded to the ABS fender for strength. An upper and a lower bracket clamp to the gear leg. The design is such that a cotter’d pin allows for 3 minute removal of the fenders while leaving the clamp in place on the gear leg.
They have no effect on measured cruise speed in my C170. They work perfectly to prevent water, mud, grass, debris and cow shit from spraying up and soiling the underside of the wings, fuselage and tail.
I think it might be possible to also design and incorporate as an option a ‘rock guard’ that would provide added protection to the tail from stones being kicked up by the tires.
Early estimates of cost to produce and STC the kits would put them at about $3000 for a set.
Please tell me if you think this is something you would buy at that price if it were produced and approved?
Thank you,
John Nielsen
