tyler.allen

I am using aluminum flatstock to make landing gear and I also am using 5/32", 2 1/4" wheels. My problem is I don't know what kind of bolt to use to connect the wheel to the aluminum stock. Any info would be really helpful.

TheRealFrosty

I use #8 bolts with nylon lock nuts. It is getting easier to find nylon lock nuts at lowes/home depot/atwoods types of places these days. You could use 2 #8 nuts together as a lock. I had to drill the wheel center out with a 3/16" drill bit. I tried #6 bolts once because I didn't want to drill out the wheel - the #6 bolts are smaller and bent in use.

edited to change 1/8" to 3/16"

tyler.allen

thanks frostkg

Villa

I'm heaviely into the spirit of SPAD and have used #8 machine screws for axles. I stopped using them because they bent too easely. In addition, running the 5/32 dia wheel rim on the threads of the machine screw results in very sloppy action. I have 5/32 diameter axles that are probably 30 years old purchased at the LHS that I keep reusing from plane to plane. In the end that is a very low priced way to go and the results are much better.

tyler.allen

what is the LHS?

rrh

LHS = local hobby shop

tyler.allen

thanks!

TheRealFrosty

My #8 machine screws have not bent yet on rough landings, but my aluminum landing gear usually bends in that case. My heaviest plane is only 6.5 lbs, and that might help the problem...

spadeng

i use a piece of roundstock and thread it on one end thread the aluminium and put a locknut on after i screw it in the landing gear then secure the wheel with wheel collars, the aluminum threads dont take a beating that well my next experement will be to use a bolt with a long grip and put bolts on both sides of the aluminum

Clean

I use #2 screws and they haven't ever bent, then again I land better than you do probably.

Actually, the 8's seem to work for me, or sliding in on the belly.