ORIGINAL: Andrewmc

I am finishing off a 4*40 and have bought a Dubro 40 size tailwheel bracket for it to replace the stock arrangement.

The instructions for the installation are a little vague and I have the following queries concerns.

1. The packaging instructions recommend to install the bracket using blind nuts - this is not possible on the 4* as the tail section is closed off. Will self taping screws with the threads hardened with CA be OK? Also due to the slope of the fuse floor the back of the tail wheel bracket is not in line with the rudder hinge line. I could either sand a recess into the fuse bottom to accomodate the bracket (but this looses material for the screw to grip or add a balsa/ply packing piece.

I would install a 1/8 inch plywood mount on the bottom of the fuse if you do not have one now. Use screws to fasten the bracket to the ply plate. Screws will hold just fine. The blind nuts if used should be installed before closing the back of the plane.

2. The profile of the bracket is larger than the fuselage ie the bracket hangs over the fuselage sides. I don't like this but sanding down the bracket to match the fuselage will remove most of the stiffening shear web of the bracket. What have other builders done here?

I would not sand down the tailwheel bracket. Your correct about compromising strength.

3. What is the best way to attach the wheel wire to the rudder? To make an "L" bend and run the wire vertically up the hinge line or make a long "S" bend and run the wire along the bottom of the rudder ( Similar to a Sullivan tail wheel assembly but without the spring).
I am concerned that the space required to make the "S" bend will be greater than the available space.

I bend the tailwheel wire rearward just under the bottom of the rudder. Then attatch the wire with fuel tubing over the tailwheel wire and a "U" shape bracket connected to the rudder with small bolt and nut.

Any other tips or recommendations?

Andrew