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331bp

Joined: 03 Oct 2011
Posts: 9

Posted: Fri Aug 17, 2012 1:43 am Post subject: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

Some of us added a wrap of fiberglass or carbon fiber around the lower part of the leg. I used carbon fiber - about 1/2"  wide wrapped around the very end of the leg and another just above the where the axle mounts. There were small cracks developing and the wraps stopped that. That was 10 years ago - no more problems with that area.  However, I have also had problems with the bolt holes wearing where the gear mounts to the seat back and to the gusset. Once the holes are worn you get a popping sound when turning. I have not come up with a good permanent fix for that yet. So far I just keep them tight, but a repair in that area is in the future.  



Bill Coleman

Pulsar XP N331BP



On Aug 17, 2012, at 4:04 AM, "mjb777" <mattbrock777(at)gmail.com> wrote:



 	  Quote: 	
		   

 

 Hi guys,

 

 Time for a new question.

 

 My Pulsar 1 tail dragger kit has the original composite main gear.

 

 It looks to be in good condition, however I wonder if there have been any modifications required, or issues with these in service?

 

 Are there still many Pulsars out there flying with the original composite main gear?

 

 Matt.

 

 --------

 Pulsar 1 TD Kit.

 Captain B777.

 Licenced Aircraft Maintenance Engineer.

 

 

 

 

 Read this topic online here:

 

 http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=381056#381056

scott(at)s-f-x.com
Guest

Posted: Fri Aug 17, 2012 2:03 am Post subject: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

My gear is composite - 20 years old and was not reinforced. It broke during a soft landing so I chose a repair which has taken 4 months and cost a fortune (insurance claim). I should have gone for the alu leg from Grove. They made a special for lighter models. Mine is 1060lbs MTOW. 

Cheers

Scott MacIntyre

On 17 Aug 2012, at 10:42, pulsar331(at)sbcglobal.net wrote:

 	  Quote: 	

 Some of us added a wrap of fiberglass or carbon fiber around the lower part of the leg. I used carbon fiber - about 1/2"  wide wrapped around the very end of the leg and another just above the where the axle mounts. There were small cracks developing and the wraps stopped that. That was 10 years ago - no more problems with that area.  However, I have also had problems with the bolt holes wearing where the gear mounts to the seat back and to the gusset. Once the holes are worn you get a popping sound when turning. I have not come up with a good permanent fix for that yet. So far I just keep them tight, but a repair in that area is in the future.  

 Bill Coleman

 Pulsar XP N331BP

 On Aug 17, 2012, at 4:04 AM, "mjb777" <mattbrock777(at)gmail.com> wrote:

> 

> 

> Hi guys,

> 

> Time for a new question.

> 

> My Pulsar 1 tail dragger kit has the original composite main gear.

> 

> It looks to be in good condition, however I wonder if there have been any modifications required, or issues with these in service?

> 

> Are there still many Pulsars out there flying with the original composite main gear?

> 

> Matt.

> 

> --------

> Pulsar 1 TD Kit.

> Captain B777.

> Licenced Aircraft Maintenance Engineer.

> 

> 

> 

> 

> Read this topic online here:

> 

> http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=381056#381056

> 

> 

> 

> 

> 

> 

> 

> 

> 

>

bernard.wilder2(at)gmail.
Guest

Posted: Fri Aug 17, 2012 5:58 am Post subject: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

Kit #390 after twelve years is still flying with the original foam filled composite gear. It has seen about 1,500 smooth landings and 500 teeth jarers. (( give or take a few.))

  

 About eight years ago a crack developed that ran two inches up from the very bottom on one side. The wheel mounting plate places two mounting bolts either side of the crack. that keeps the crack from spreading open.. The crack has never gone any farther up the gear so I didn't do anything about it and have long since stopped worrying about it.

   

  

 After twelve years the gear has developed a little permanent spread.  The wheels no longer sit exactly straight up and down.  Close but not exactly. 

  

 HEY - - - - we all develop a little spread with age. I expect to go on for a few more years and I expect my gear to do the same.

  

 Bernie Wilder

 On Fri, Aug 17, 2012 at 4:04 AM, mjb777 <mattbrock777(at)gmail.com (mattbrock777(at)gmail.com)> wrote:

 [quote]--> Pulsar-List message posted by: "mjb777" <mattbrock777(at)gmail.com (mattbrock777(at)gmail.com)>

 

Hi guys,



Time for a new question.



My Pulsar 1 tail dragger kit has the original composite main gear.



It looks to be in good condition, however I wonder if there have been any modifications required, or issues with these in service?

 

Are there still many Pulsars out there flying with the original composite main gear?



Matt.



--------

Pulsar 1 TD Kit.

Captain B777.

Licenced Aircraft Maintenance Engineer.





Read this topic online here:

 

http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=381056#381========================

 y Browse, Chat, FAQ,

 ="http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Pulsar-List" target="_blank">http:=====

  http://forums.mle, List Admin.

 =====



[b]

kdpalmer(at)mweb.co.za
Guest

Posted: Fri Aug 17, 2012 6:34 am Post subject: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

The very early main gears had problems and a heavier core ? was used which 

improved the gear. Later a mod came out because of splitting at the bolt 

holes for the slub axles, this envolved wrapping carbon fibre around the 

lower 5 or 6" where the bolts went through to stop the splitting. ( for 

Bernard )



K'd

---

scott(at)s-f-x.com
Guest

Posted: Fri Aug 17, 2012 8:14 am Post subject: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

I did ask the repairer (Roger Targett, a composite specialist) to wrap my repaired leg and I mentioned the norm was carbon - he seemed to take the view that glass was more appropriate. He has wrapped the 2" above and below the radius i.e. a 4" sock. He does this on the Extra to stop the leg delaminating. Not sure about the science but I am happy to take his advice. 



Scott MacIntyre

Sent from my iPhone



On 17 Aug 2012, at 15:33, "Keith Palmer" <kdpalmer(at)mweb.co.za> wrote:



[quote] 

 

 The very early main gears had problems and a heavier core ? was used which improved the gear. Later a mod came out because of splitting at the bolt holes for the slub axles, this envolved wrapping carbon fibre around the lower 5 or 6" where the bolts went through to stop the splitting. ( for Bernard )

 

 K'd

 

 

 ---

rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com
Guest

Posted: Fri Aug 17, 2012 8:35 am Post subject: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

There was also a mod to the Glass gear by Skystar for the Pulsar III. It

added carbon fiber to the gear legs to stiffen the gear legs. They have a

tendency to shimmy when landing faster than normal. 



Ray      Pulsar III/3300





--

alan99gill(at)yahoo.co.uk
Guest

Posted: Sat Aug 18, 2012 1:12 am Post subject: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

Bernard

 

Are you able to measure the thickness of your foam filled undercarriage ?? say 12 inches down from where it come out of the fuselage. Just good details to have, so that when I get enquiries as to what U/C the owner has, I can advise.

 

FYI .. we in the UK mainly fly off from grass runways, and as the early Pulsars (mine included) were fitted with "foam filled" undercarrages, they gave very little flexing on landing, and started to delaminate/crack. I indicated to Mark Brown our problems!!  (we also had front nose leg strut problems, so a "spring" strut link was designed by Mark). Mark then started to supply the "all glass" composite main gear U/C (I think this was around 1992/3). It was  more flexable on landing, and gave no problems (but for any mis-handleing).

 

Regards

Alan Gill

UK Pulsar Squadron Support

 

      

  From: Bernard Wilder <bernard.wilder2(at)gmail.com>

 To: pulsar-list(at)matronics.com 

 Sent: Friday, 17 August 2012, 14:57

 Subject: Re: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

  

 

Kit #390 after twelve years is still flying with the original foam filled composite gear. It has seen about 1,500 smooth landings and 500 teeth jarers. (( give or take a few.))

  

 About eight years ago a crack developed that ran two inches up from the very bottom on one side. The wheel mounting plate places two mounting bolts either side of the crack. that keeps the crack from spreading open.. The crack has never gone any farther up the gear so I didn't do anything about it and have long since stopped worrying about it.

   

  

 After twelve years the gear has developed a little permanent spread.  The wheels no longer sit exactly straight up and down.  Close but not exactly. 

  

 HEY - - - - we all develop a little spread with age. I expect to go on for a few more years and I expect my gear to do the same.

  

 Bernie Wilder

 On Fri, Aug 17, 2012 at 4:04 AM, mjb777 <mattbrock777(at)gmail.com (mattbrock777(at)gmail.com)> wrote:

  	  Quote: 	
		  --> Pulsar-List message posted by: "mjb777" <mattbrock777(at)gmail.com (mattbrock777(at)gmail.com)>

 

Hi guys,



Time for a new question.



My Pulsar 1 tail dragger kit has the original composite main gear.



It looks to be in good condition, however I wonder if there have been any modifications required, or issues with these in service?

 

Are there still many Pulsars out there flying with the original composite main gear?



Matt.



--------

Pulsar 1 TD Kit.

Captain B777.

Licenced Aircraft Maintenance Engineer.





Read this topic online here:

 

http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=381056#381========================

 y Browse, Chat, FAQ,

 ="http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Pulsar-List" target="_blank">http:=====

  http://forums.mle, List Admin.

 =====



	
[url=http://forums.matronics.com/][/url]



  [quote]http://www.matronics://forums.matronics.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://forums.==========


[b]

mjb777

Joined: 11 Aug 2012
Posts: 54
Location: Dubai UAE

Posted: Thu Aug 23, 2012 12:00 am Post subject: Re: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

 	  rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com wrote: 	
		  There was also a mod to the Glass gear by Skystar for the Pulsar III. It

added carbon fiber to the gear legs to stiffen the gear legs. They have a

tendency to shimmy when landing faster than normal. 



Ray      Pulsar III/3300





-- 	




Ray do you have any details of this carbon fibre modification? Was it to the whole gear or specific areas?



Does your Pulsar 3 have a wood or composite spar?



Matt.

_________________
Pulsar 1 TD Kit.
Captain B777.
Licenced Aircraft Maintenance Engineer.

lwheat2083(at)gmail.com
Guest

Posted: Thu Aug 23, 2012 6:02 am Post subject: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

I have the completely composite (glass) one piece gear on my Pulsar III. Has anyone had a problem with this gear that I should be aware of. So far, so good with about 50+ landings on it. Cheers, Larry N852LW



 On Thu, Aug 23, 2012 at 1:00 AM, mjb777 <mattbrock777(at)gmail.com (mattbrock777(at)gmail.com)> wrote:

  	  Quote: 	
		  --> Pulsar-List message posted by: "mjb777" <mattbrock777(at)gmail.com (mattbrock777(at)gmail.com)>

 



rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com wrote:

 	  Quote: 	
		   There was also a mod to the Glass gear by Skystar for the Pulsar III. It

 added carbon fiber to the gear legs to stiffen the gear legs. They have a

 > tendency to shimmy when landing faster than normal.
	


 	  Quote: 	
		  

 Ray      Pulsar III/3300





 --


	




Ray do you have any details of this carbon fibre modification? Was it to the whole gear or specific areas?

 

Does your Pulsar 3 have a wood or composite spar?



Matt.



--------

Pulsar 1 TD Kit.

Captain B777.

Licenced Aircraft Maintenance Engineer.





Read this topic online here:



http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=381581#381581

 ist Un/Subscription,

 www.matronics.com/Navigator?Pulsar-List" target="_blank">http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Pulsar-List

 ronics.com/" target="_blank">http://forums.matronics.com

 Matt Dralle, List Admin.

 =====



	




 

-- 

Larry Wheat

  [quote][b]

rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com
Guest

Posted: Thu Aug 23, 2012 6:43 am Post subject: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

I don't have the details. It was 2 or 3 laps around the lower legs up to

about 18 inches from where the axel is fitted, I think. I don't have the

glass gear anymore. I was the first to install a Grove gear many years ago.

The glass gear collapsed from excessive heat soak back from doing fast

landing tests.



Ray   Pulsar III/3300

--

lwheat2083(at)gmail.com
Guest

Posted: Thu Aug 23, 2012 7:17 am Post subject: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

How do you like the grove and how was the installation. So far we have not experienced any thing on the glass gear but I have been inspecting it every day after flights. It is painted white so any cracking should show up pretty good. Cheers, Larry N852LW

 

 On Thu, Aug 23, 2012 at 7:42 AM, Ray Wilhelm <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com (rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com)> wrote:

 [quote]--> Pulsar-List message posted by: "Ray Wilhelm" <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com (rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com)>

 

I don't have the details. It was 2 or 3 laps around the lower legs up to

about 18 inches from where the axel is fitted, I think. I don't have the

glass gear anymore. I was the first to install a Grove gear many years ago.

 The glass gear collapsed from excessive heat soak back from doing fast

landing tests.



Ray   Pulsar III/3300

  



--

rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com
Guest

Posted: Thu Aug 23, 2012 8:11 am Post subject: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

It is not the cracks, Larry. The soak back from the brakes softens the glass and the gear just folds over. It does not happen right away. It takes time. Mine collapsed in the Hanger. Love the Grove but get the one piece and install it like the original by cutting out the bottom joint you made originally.

 

Ray    Pulsar III/3300

 

 

From: owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com [mailto:owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com] On Behalf Of Larry Wheat

Sent: Thursday, August 23, 2012 8:16 AM

To: pulsar-list(at)matronics.com

Subject: Re: Re: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

 

How do you like the grove and how was the installation. So far we have not experienced any thing on the glass gear but I have been inspecting it every day after flights. It is painted white so any cracking should show up pretty good. Cheers, Larry N852LW

On Thu, Aug 23, 2012 at 7:42 AM, Ray Wilhelm <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com (rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com)> wrote:

--> Pulsar-List message posted by: "Ray Wilhelm" <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com (rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com)>



I don't have the details. It was 2 or 3 laps around the lower legs up to

about 18 inches from where the axel is fitted, I think. I don't have the

glass gear anymore. I was the first to install a Grove gear many years ago.

The glass gear collapsed from excessive heat soak back from doing fast

landing tests.



Ray   Pulsar III/3300

--

lwheat2083(at)gmail.com
Guest

Posted: Thu Aug 23, 2012 8:47 am Post subject: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

What would be a check to keep an eye on it. Any indications prior to collapse that I could look for. Cheers, Larry N852LW



 On Thu, Aug 23, 2012 at 9:11 AM, Ray Wilhelm <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com (rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com)> wrote:

 [quote]   

It is not the cracks, Larry. The soak back from the brakes softens the glass and the gear just folds over. It does not happen right away. It takes time. Mine collapsed in the Hanger. Love the Grove but get the one piece and install it like the original by cutting out the bottom joint you made originally.  

  

Ray    Pulsar III/3300 

  

  

From: owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com) [mailto:owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com)] On Behalf Of Larry Wheat

 Sent: Thursday, August 23, 2012 8:16 AM

To: pulsar-list(at)matronics.com (pulsar-list(at)matronics.com)

Subject: Re: Re: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.    

  

How do you like the grove and how was the installation. So far we have not experienced any thing on the glass gear but I have been inspecting it every day after flights. It is painted white so any cracking should show up pretty good. Cheers, Larry N852LW 



    

On Thu, Aug 23, 2012 at 7:42 AM, Ray Wilhelm <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com (rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com)> wrote: 

--> Pulsar-List message posted by: "Ray Wilhelm" <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com (rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com)>



I don't have the details. It was 2 or 3 laps around the lower legs up to

 about 18 inches from where the axel is fitted, I think. I don't have the

glass gear anymore. I was the first to install a Grove gear many years ago.

The glass gear collapsed from excessive heat soak back from doing fast

 landing tests.



Ray   Pulsar III/3300



   

  



--

rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com
Guest

Posted: Thu Aug 23, 2012 8:57 am Post subject: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

Are you doing hard stops with wheel pants on? If not, no worry.

 

R

 

 

From: owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com [mailto:owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com] On Behalf Of Larry Wheat

Sent: Thursday, August 23, 2012 9:46 AM

To: pulsar-list(at)matronics.com

Subject: Re: Re: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

 

What would be a check to keep an eye on it. Any indications prior to collapse that I could look for. Cheers, Larry N852LW

On Thu, Aug 23, 2012 at 9:11 AM, Ray Wilhelm <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com (rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com)> wrote:

It is not the cracks, Larry. The soak back from the brakes softens the glass and the gear just folds over. It does not happen right away. It takes time. Mine collapsed in the Hanger. Love the Grove but get the one piece and install it like the original by cutting out the bottom joint you made originally.

 

Ray    Pulsar III/3300

 

 

From: owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com) [mailto:owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com)] On Behalf Of Larry Wheat

Sent: Thursday, August 23, 2012 8:16 AM

To: pulsar-list(at)matronics.com (pulsar-list(at)matronics.com)

Subject: Re: Re: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

 

How do you like the grove and how was the installation. So far we have not experienced any thing on the glass gear but I have been inspecting it every day after flights. It is painted white so any cracking should show up pretty good. Cheers, Larry N852LW

On Thu, Aug 23, 2012 at 7:42 AM, Ray Wilhelm <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com (rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com)> wrote:

--> Pulsar-List message posted by: "Ray Wilhelm" <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com (rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com)>



I don't have the details. It was 2 or 3 laps around the lower legs up to

about 18 inches from where the axel is fitted, I think. I don't have the

glass gear anymore. I was the first to install a Grove gear many years ago.

The glass gear collapsed from excessive heat soak back from doing fast

landing tests.



Ray   Pulsar III/3300





--

lwheat2083(at)gmail.com
Guest

Posted: Thu Aug 23, 2012 10:02 am Post subject: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

No I elected to leave the pants off until I hit the 100 hr mark. Just to make sure my proficiency is up to par.Cheers, Larry N852LW



 On Thu, Aug 23, 2012 at 9:57 AM, Ray Wilhelm <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com (rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com)> wrote:

 [quote]   

Are you doing hard stops with wheel pants on? If not, no worry. 

  

R 

  

  

From: owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com) [mailto:owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com)] On Behalf Of Larry Wheat

 Sent: Thursday, August 23, 2012 9:46 AM   

To: pulsar-list(at)matronics.com (pulsar-list(at)matronics.com)

Subject: Re: Pulsar-List: Re: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.



  

   

  

What would be a check to keep an eye on it. Any indications prior to collapse that I could look for. Cheers, Larry N852LW



    

On Thu, Aug 23, 2012 at 9:11 AM, Ray Wilhelm <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com (rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com)> wrote:



     

It is not the cracks, Larry. The soak back from the brakes softens the glass and the gear just folds over. It does not happen right away. It takes time. Mine collapsed in the Hanger. Love the Grove but get the one piece and install it like the original by cutting out the bottom joint you made originally.  

  

Ray    Pulsar III/3300 

  

  

From: owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com) [mailto:owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com)] On Behalf Of Larry Wheat

 Sent: Thursday, August 23, 2012 8:16 AM

To: pulsar-list(at)matronics.com (pulsar-list(at)matronics.com)

Subject: Re: Re: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.    

  

How do you like the grove and how was the installation. So far we have not experienced any thing on the glass gear but I have been inspecting it every day after flights. It is painted white so any cracking should show up pretty good. Cheers, Larry N852LW 



    

On Thu, Aug 23, 2012 at 7:42 AM, Ray Wilhelm <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com (rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com)> wrote: 

--> Pulsar-List message posted by: "Ray Wilhelm" <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com (rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com)>



I don't have the details. It was 2 or 3 laps around the lower legs up to

 about 18 inches from where the axel is fitted, I think. I don't have the

glass gear anymore. I was the first to install a Grove gear many years ago.

The glass gear collapsed from excessive heat soak back from doing fast

 landing tests.



Ray   Pulsar III/3300



     

--

rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com
Guest

Posted: Thu Aug 23, 2012 10:09 am Post subject: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

I failed the gear in tests to determine the shortest landing length at the highest touch down speed. At 100 mph tough down the distance was about 1200 ft. at sea level and 70 F. It was just to see what may be possible someday.

 

Ray    Pulsar III/3300

 

 

From: owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com [mailto:owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com] On Behalf Of Larry Wheat

Sent: Thursday, August 23, 2012 10:59 AM

To: pulsar-list(at)matronics.com

Subject: Re: Re: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

 

No I elected to leave the pants off until I hit the 100 hr mark. Just to make sure my proficiency is up to par.Cheers, Larry N852LW

On Thu, Aug 23, 2012 at 9:57 AM, Ray Wilhelm <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com (rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com)> wrote:

Are you doing hard stops with wheel pants on? If not, no worry.

 

R

 

 

From: owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com) [mailto:owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com)] On Behalf Of Larry Wheat

Sent: Thursday, August 23, 2012 9:46 AM 



To: pulsar-list(at)matronics.com (pulsar-list(at)matronics.com)

Subject: Re: Re: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

 

What would be a check to keep an eye on it. Any indications prior to collapse that I could look for. Cheers, Larry N852LW

On Thu, Aug 23, 2012 at 9:11 AM, Ray Wilhelm <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com (rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com)> wrote:

It is not the cracks, Larry. The soak back from the brakes softens the glass and the gear just folds over. It does not happen right away. It takes time. Mine collapsed in the Hanger. Love the Grove but get the one piece and install it like the original by cutting out the bottom joint you made originally.

 

Ray    Pulsar III/3300

 

 

From: owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com) [mailto:owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com)] On Behalf Of Larry Wheat

Sent: Thursday, August 23, 2012 8:16 AM

To: pulsar-list(at)matronics.com (pulsar-list(at)matronics.com)

Subject: Re: Re: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

 

How do you like the grove and how was the installation. So far we have not experienced any thing on the glass gear but I have been inspecting it every day after flights. It is painted white so any cracking should show up pretty good. Cheers, Larry N852LW

On Thu, Aug 23, 2012 at 7:42 AM, Ray Wilhelm <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com (rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com)> wrote:

--> Pulsar-List message posted by: "Ray Wilhelm" <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com (rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com)>



I don't have the details. It was 2 or 3 laps around the lower legs up to

about 18 inches from where the axel is fitted, I think. I don't have the

glass gear anymore. I was the first to install a Grove gear many years ago.

The glass gear collapsed from excessive heat soak back from doing fast

landing tests.



Ray   Pulsar III/3300





--

lwheat2083(at)gmail.com
Guest

Posted: Thu Aug 23, 2012 10:27 am Post subject: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

During first time testing our highest touchdown speed was 70. We only have 2400 ft so not a lot of room. Didn't have any trouble slowing down "almost" mid turn with no braking which surprised all of us. Just wanted to keep the speed up until we could get some parameters. After installing the Vortex Generators lowered threshold to 70 and touchdown at around 60. This is pretty close to my landing speed with my Excalibur so pretty pleased with the overall performance so far. Sweet airplane. Cheers, Larry N852LW

 

 On Thu, Aug 23, 2012 at 11:09 AM, Ray Wilhelm <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com (rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com)> wrote:

 [quote]   

I failed the gear in tests to determine the shortest landing length at the highest touch down speed. At 100 mph tough down the distance was about 1200 ft. at sea level and 70 F. It was just to see what may be possible someday.  

  

Ray    Pulsar III/3300 

  

  

From: owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com) [mailto:owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com)] On Behalf Of Larry Wheat

 Sent: Thursday, August 23, 2012 10:59 AM   

To: pulsar-list(at)matronics.com (pulsar-list(at)matronics.com)

Subject: Re: Pulsar-List: Re: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.



  

   

  

No I elected to leave the pants off until I hit the 100 hr mark. Just to make sure my proficiency is up to par.Cheers, Larry N852LW  

On Thu, Aug 23, 2012 at 9:57 AM, Ray Wilhelm <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com (rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com)> wrote:   

Are you doing hard stops with wheel pants on? If not, no worry. 

  

R 

  

  

From: owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com) [mailto:owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com)] On Behalf Of Larry Wheat

 Sent: Thursday, August 23, 2012 9:46 AM    



To: pulsar-list(at)matronics.com (pulsar-list(at)matronics.com)

Subject: Re: Re: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age. 



   

  

What would be a check to keep an eye on it. Any indications prior to collapse that I could look for. Cheers, Larry N852LW



    

On Thu, Aug 23, 2012 at 9:11 AM, Ray Wilhelm <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com (rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com)> wrote:



     

It is not the cracks, Larry. The soak back from the brakes softens the glass and the gear just folds over. It does not happen right away. It takes time. Mine collapsed in the Hanger. Love the Grove but get the one piece and install it like the original by cutting out the bottom joint you made originally.  

  

Ray    Pulsar III/3300 

  

  

From: owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com) [mailto:owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com (owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com)] On Behalf Of Larry Wheat

 Sent: Thursday, August 23, 2012 8:16 AM

To: pulsar-list(at)matronics.com (pulsar-list(at)matronics.com)

Subject: Re: Re: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.    

  

How do you like the grove and how was the installation. So far we have not experienced any thing on the glass gear but I have been inspecting it every day after flights. It is painted white so any cracking should show up pretty good. Cheers, Larry N852LW 



    

On Thu, Aug 23, 2012 at 7:42 AM, Ray Wilhelm <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com (rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com)> wrote: 

--> Pulsar-List message posted by: "Ray Wilhelm" <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com (rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com)>



I don't have the details. It was 2 or 3 laps around the lower legs up to

 about 18 inches from where the axel is fitted, I think. I don't have the

glass gear anymore. I was the first to install a Grove gear many years ago.

The glass gear collapsed from excessive heat soak back from doing fast

 landing tests.



Ray   Pulsar III/3300



     

--

Pulsar747n

Joined: 01 Jan 2011
Posts: 7
Location: Southwest Utah

Posted: Thu Aug 23, 2012 10:33 am Post subject: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

I also had the same problem with the glass gear including the carbon wrap mod.  I was doing high speed test runs and the excessive heat generated by the brakes collapsed the left leg about 2 inches up from the upper brake holes.

I have not done anything yet but I am soon faced with replacing the gear with the Grove.

Carlos, Pulsar III / Aeromax  

        From: Ray Wilhelm <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com>

 To: pulsar-list(at)matronics.com 

 Sent: Thursday, August 23, 2012 7:42 AM

 Subject: RE: Re: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

 --> Pulsar-List message posted by: "Ray Wilhelm" <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com (rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com)>

I don't have the details. It was 2 or 3 laps around the lower legs up to

about 18 inches from where the axel is fitted, I think. I don't have the

glass gear anymore. I was the first to install a Grove gear many years ago.

The glass gear collapsed from excessive heat soak back from doing fast

landing tests.

Ray   Pulsar III/3300

--

rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com
Guest

Posted: Thu Aug 23, 2012 10:44 am Post subject: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

Grove use to make both the one piece and a 2 piece. I went with the 2 piece thinking it would be easier to install. Wrong! Just go with the 1 piece as Bernie Berger did with his III.

 

Ray    Pulsar III/3300

 

 

From: owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com [mailto:owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com] On Behalf Of Pulsar747N

Sent: Thursday, August 23, 2012 11:33 AM

To: pulsar-list(at)matronics.com

Subject: Re: Re: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

 

I also had the same problem with the glass gear including the carbon wrap mod.  I was doing high speed test runs and the excessive heat generated by the brakes collapsed the left leg about 2 inches up from the upper brake holes.



I have not done anything yet but I am soon faced with replacing the gear with the Grove.



Carlos, Pulsar III / Aeromax  



 

From: Ray Wilhelm <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com (rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com)>

To: pulsar-list(at)matronics.com (pulsar-list(at)matronics.com) 

Sent: Thursday, August 23, 2012 7:42 AM

Subject: RE: Re: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

--> Pulsar-List message posted by: "Ray Wilhelm" <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com (rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com)>



I don't have the details. It was 2 or 3 laps around the lower legs up to

about 18 inches from where the axel is fitted, I think. I don't have the

glass gear anymore. I was the first to install a Grove gear many years ago.

The glass gear collapsed from excessive heat soak back from doing fast

landing tests.



Ray  Pulsar III/3300

--

rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com
Guest

Posted: Thu Aug 23, 2012 11:06 am Post subject: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

Don’t try to reheat it and bend it back. That won’t work for long!

 

Ray

 

 

From: owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com [mailto:owner-pulsar-list-server(at)matronics.com] On Behalf Of Pulsar747N

Sent: Thursday, August 23, 2012 11:33 AM

To: pulsar-list(at)matronics.com

Subject: Re: Re: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

 

I also had the same problem with the glass gear including the carbon wrap mod.  I was doing high speed test runs and the excessive heat generated by the brakes collapsed the left leg about 2 inches up from the upper brake holes.



I have not done anything yet but I am soon faced with replacing the gear with the Grove.



Carlos, Pulsar III / Aeromax  



 

From: Ray Wilhelm <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com (rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com)>

To: pulsar-list(at)matronics.com (pulsar-list(at)matronics.com) 

Sent: Thursday, August 23, 2012 7:42 AM

Subject: RE: Re: Fiberglass/ foam undercarriage age.

--> Pulsar-List message posted by: "Ray Wilhelm" <rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com (rwilhelm(at)dc.rr.com)>



I don't have the details. It was 2 or 3 laps around the lower legs up to

about 18 inches from where the axel is fitted, I think. I don't have the

glass gear anymore. I was the first to install a Grove gear many years ago.

The glass gear collapsed from excessive heat soak back from doing fast

landing tests.



Ray  Pulsar III/3300

--

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