RE: WACO YMF
Master Chief,
I got the idea from a big old plane I fly a lot. It has a tailwheel setup that is connected to the rudder by springs, and there's a lot of loose play in it; however, since the axle of the wheel is behind the pivot point of the wheel assembly, it tends to straighten itself out, and it tracks really well taxiing on the ground. I see no reason the UMF's setup won't behave the same way. Primer coats are on the repair, I'll mask and spray the basecoat tomorrow, give it a day to cure, and spray the trim color Thursday. All other repairs are done, it's ready to try again.
I had to change the main gear struts, the ends weren't strong enough. I made straps for the ends and riveted them on. I can hang off them now and they stay put. The struts are carbon fiber.