A Bogi-Bar works good for me on my -7A. It's got thinwall tubing that just fits over the 5/16" washers under the towbar bolt heads. I switched from the allen head bolts to an AN bolt with a stack of 6 or 8 washers (I can't remember) beneath the head so the towbar would have a better grip. If the towbar slips off of the bolt, you end up pulling directly on the nosewheel fairing. If you want to keep your paint job nice in that area, make sure that you're the one using the towbar. Other users, aka linemen, aren't quite so careful.
I really like these to protect from towbar damage: https://flyboyaccessories.com/product/tug-guards-for-nosewheel-rvs
Found these aluminum ones on the web for ~ $18 each.
https://shop.wagnercompanies.com/flange-16324
I would think you could make a flange out of aluminum and "dimple" the edge of the hole with a little effort.
I plan to use an aluminum ring riveted or bonded on; I don't see a need for a flange.
I plan to use an aluminum ring riveted or bonded on; I don't see a need for a flange.
I use these Tow Pins:
https://bogertaviation.com/products/rva-tow-pin-kit?_pos=4&_sid=cd1907bbb&_ss=r
And this Tow Bar:
https://www.aircraftspruce.com/pages/ps/towbars_0vans/rvaseries13-18476.php
It’s the only setup I’d use!
On my Bogart towbar, the dimensions of the end tubes that slide over my AN bolt with washer stack are:
The O.D. is 3/4" and the I.D. is 5/8". It is somewhat snug as it should be, but easily slides over the washer stack with no lubrication needed.
I've had it several years and the end tubes are still round, but could be elongated with some minor abuse by less careful users. I don't use a flange and the paint on the nosewheel fairing around the holes, while not perfect, is still in very good condition.