Ok. I'm officially frustrated. Does anybody know how to install Century Jet's mechanical tailwheel into the Hangar 9 Corsair? Is this possible. I don't know what it might look like, i.e. what materials required for the linkages etc. For example do I use a pull-pull system? I ask that, like I know what I'm talking about, the truth is I really don't. Any hep would be appreciated.

Hello, and welcome to RCU.

I'm not sure what CJ's retractable tailwheel looks like, but I thought about installing a Robart retractable tailwheel to my H9 corsair. But, due to the design of the plane, the stock tailwheel also operates the rudder. This means that plenty of modification would have to be done. The tailwheel that comes with the kit is hooked up directly to the rudder. In my case, there is no way of installing the Robart t/w and make it work like the original. I would have to move the rudder/tailwheel servo inside, run a new control rod or pull-pull to the rudder, and then add a second retract servo just for the new tailwheel. There isn't much room to work back there, so I just gave up on the whole idea. That much work would be better off on a built-up kit, like a Top Flite, where you can get the gear installed before sheeting and covering. Like I said, that was for the Robart tailwheel. I'm not sure how much work would be required for the CJM tailwheel. Let us know how it goes.

Jesse

What Jesse said... []

I got the retract tailwheel from CJ when I got the main gear retracts, had no idea when I ordered it since I'd not really even looked at the model.

While I've been sidetracked by an un-anticipated addiction to IMAC planes and the Corsair hasn't been finished, I did do a bunch of looking around for information on installing the retract tailwheel. The results of my search were not good. I'm sure there are guys out there who could set it up, but it would take major re-engineering of the rudder control system as well as something for tailwheel steering, then you still need another servo for the tailwheel retract since it's mechanical, not pneumatic.

SO.... mine won't have a retractable tailwheel.

Im not 100% positive but I think I remeber reading about a retractable tailwheel in the Hangar 9 Corsair thread. Its a long thread so you may have to speed read a few posts to get to it.
If it where me I think I would PM Richard L. and talk to him. He built a Kyosho Corsair and I think he mentioned he was going to start a Hangar 9. Even if he hasnt he is pretty knowledgable and may point you in the right direction.

[&o] Thanks so much. Your experience has been my experience I'll think I'll just bag it. Maybe see if I can send the tailwheel back.

No No No Don't send it back. Buy a kit, and learn to build and use it. You will find a completely new side of this hobby.

Well, that's what I would like to do. But I need more friends in this locale that have some know how. Once I see it can be done. I have no problem doing what's required. I guess the major issue, is I'm not creative enough to come up with a solution on my own, and to know what that solution might look like. I do appreciate the brainstorming of all the ideas in this forum.