Topic: landing gear rebuild

[David H]

My mechanic recently finished rebuilding the landing gear with new rubbers.   All of the compression and rebound donuts were replaced with new.    The difference in height is very noticeable both from the ground and in the cockpit.     Here's some photos from when I bought it, 1971 (still in service) and after the gear rebuild.   




Dave

[Champdriver]

David, I am also in the midst of landing gear overhaul.  Where did you get your rebound and compession doughnuts?  I think I will replace all of them as well.  I also have to have the lower piston chromed, since both gear legs have chrome chipping and pitting.  But I think I will be very happy to have it completed.  How did you get the Plug end Part Number 01476 removed from the top end of the under carriage leg?  I am having to build a puller that will allow me to put a substantial pull on the Plug.  It appears the plug is removed by a puller of some sort, because that thing is stuck very well...  I have ordered some 4ba Screws to assist in removing the 01475 Plugs from the lower end of the casting, just above the torque link hinge. 
I will post  a couple of photos of the Chipmunk, as soon as I figure out how to post a photo...

Photo of N22DH with Lawrence Alley, United States Marine Corp Decorated WWII F4U Corsair and Korea AD-1 Sky Raider Pilot.
Photo by Terry Alley...

Photo of N22DH Prior to Resurection after 20 year hybernation.  Motor Mounts are sagging and Landing Gear is Compressed...
Photo by Terry Alley

[David H]

I got the donuts from Splitpinengineering - http://www.splitpinengineering.com/underconstruction/manuallist.php

I'm sorry but I'm afraid I can't be much help in guiding you in the disassembly.    My mechanic took mine apart without too much difficulty.   I think they did end up using a puller of some sort on one of the legs.     Don't forget to order the rebound rubbers too. I forgot and things got delayed a few days.  There are 28 compression and 3 rebound per side.    If you search this site you'll find some more information about it.   I think someone mentioned sticking the gear leg in the freezer overnight when you wife's not home.    You can't hide a leg of chipmunk behind a leg lamb:)

Dave

[David H]

I forgot to add that your chippie looks pretty good after sitting around for 20 years.    There's another site that you can order parts from in the UK.   I haven't needed to but it can't hurt to have more resources.

http://www.lasaero.com/site/products/article?id=Q01YP1UQT

Dave