Converting to Tail Dragger?
 

Does anyone have any experience in converting a SIG Kadet LT-40 ARF over to a tail dragger configuration? I am considering getting one of these planes, but do not want the trike config.

How difficult do you think it would be to change?

Thanks for your advice.

Also, anyone know of a low priced source for this aircraft?

RE: Converting to Tail Dragger?
 

do a quick search and you will see that many have done it...

it is really quite easy.....

RE: Converting to Tail Dragger?
 

Dave-

Knowing that your ultimate goal is to get your matching pair of Coverite Black Baron Specials in the air, why don't you go with a cheaper trainer, like the Tower Hobbies Tower Trainer 40 MK II ARF. It's about half the price of the LT-40?

To convert any trainer with wire landing gear to taildragger, you will want to purchase a sturdier set of main gear like [link=http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXNM65&P=0]this[/link] and a tailwheel setup like [link=http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0001p?&I=LXFV46&P=0]this.[/link] You will mount the main gear so the axles are right around the leading edge of the wing. You will need to add plywood reinforcement to the fuselage at the area where the new gear is located. Hooking up steering for the tailwheel may be a bit of a trick, but I'msure someone can advise on that.

Regards,
Scott

RE: Converting to Tail Dragger?
 

Guys,

Thanks for the quick replies. That Tower Hobbies trainer looks pretty appealing when you see the price. I'll take a look at that in addition to doing a search on the LT-40. Thanks again!

RE: Converting to Tail Dragger?
 

A simple solution is to use a four star 60 aluminum gear and mount a plywood bed under the fuselage supported with tri-stock inside and a little glass cloth over the outside. You will need to be innovative for the tail wheel control if you have already built the plane. If you are starting from scratch, then you only need a relief slot in the elevator for the rudder control wire to pass through for the tail wheel. I have seen many trainer converted to tail dragers with great success. You are better off with an aluminum gear on the larger ones, as it is easier to install than making big cut for the wire gear hardwood stock, and may even be lighter and more forgiving on harder landings. We have one guy flying a Hobbistar .60 with an aluminum gear and alot of the pros like shooting touch and goes with it, since it lands so pretty.

Hope you enjoy your LT40, great airplane, worth the extra money and will take bigger engines with no problem, . . . floats anyone?

RE: Converting to Tail Dragger?
 

I am pretty sure the tower trainer is exactly like the hobbico superstar which i have and love. Just replace the main gear and your ready to go. but the main gear can stay for a bit