Gotta crawl back in the tail...

Flying Scotsman · #1 12-11-2011, 12:28 AM

Anybody have a suggestion for a good, cheap "stand" for supporting the tail (-A model) while I crawl back in there to run some wires/static lines/etc.? I'm thinking of something like a jack stand with a threaded rod to go into the tiedown? Wonder if HF or HD or someplace might have something tall enough I could use or modify...

I have nightmares of being in the tail section and the plane tipping up and having the tail crash down!

Yeah, yeah...I know...not a problem for a tail-dragger LOL! But then all the blood rushes to your head!

TIA!

Steve-a-reno

CPSONE · #2 12-11-2011, 01:09 AM

This is what I use. but I make darn sure the main tires are well chocked.
("Don't try this at home" disclaimer...I am a trained professional...)
It's a 4x4 post that the tie down ring rests on and a fuselage cradle.
Put a large platform on the bottom of the 4x4 post t make sure it stays put.

Andy Hill · #3 12-11-2011, 01:22 AM

Would it not be easier to "support the nose" and put the tail on / close to the ground?

Flying Scotsman · #4 12-11-2011, 01:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Andy Hill

Would it not be easier to "support the nose" and put the tail on / close to the ground?

Not with the engine on, I don't think...that worked just fine when there was no 300+ pounds up front (and the whole thing was basically in TW configuration

), but that sounds hazardous at this point...

Andy Hill · #5 12-11-2011, 01:53 AM

I'd still offer it as a suggestion since:

It is easier to support, and secure, a "nosewheel" than the tail area...
If you have it "stablised" without you in the tail, it sets more stable as you get in there.
If the worst happens, and the support fails, if the tail support fails, you and the aircraft are at risk. If the nose support fails, I doubt either you or the aircraft would be harmed.
As you rotate the aircraft back, it gets more and more balanced - most NW types can have the nose lifted by moderate pressure on the HS.

KRviator · #6 12-11-2011, 01:54 AM

I just use a $10 sawhorse from Bunnings Hardware with a bit of foam rubber strapped around it. Put it under a bulkhead to avoid stressing the skin.

Greg Arehart · #7 12-11-2011, 07:20 AM

Two sawhorses set parallel to the fuselage and a 2x12 under the tail at the rear two bulkheads with a big piece of foam on it to spread the weight. Add pieces of 2x12 or whatever to make it the proper height. If you're really picky, cut the foam in a wedge shape so it supports the bulkheads equally.

I did the same thing to support the firewall before it was on the legs.

greg

Pat Stewart · #8 12-11-2011, 07:21 AM

I do not have pictures but a simple carpet sling is what I have used for years.

Pat

Rick6a · #9 12-11-2011, 07:59 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Flying Scotsman

Anybody have a suggestion for a good, cheap "stand" for supporting the tail (-A model) while I crawl back in there to run some wires/static lines/etc....

I have several of these folding type sawhorses. What I like about the design is you can incrementally adjust individual leg height for maximum utility and when you are done using the sawhorse, the heavy gauge steel unit folds up for compact storage.

fatherson · #10 12-11-2011, 08:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rick6a

I have several of these folding type sawhorses. What I like about the design is you can incrementally adjust individual leg height for maximum utility and when you are done using the sawhorse, the heavy gauge steel unit folds up for compact storage.

Nice adjustable sawhorses, Rick. (new tools! shiny!)

Yours look like they may be these Crawford ones:

- http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0009WG5ZI

which are about $35 shipped from Amazon or about $30 at my local HomeDepot.

--
Stephen