Your Cart
Items
Free Shipping on orders over $500.00
Part # ABI-51215
T3 TAILWHEEL SUSPENSION, PA-18
Get everything you need
ABI-PA18-1
PA-18 THREE LEAF TAILSPRING, 1 BOLT
$1,048.00 / was $1,310.00
Product Details
Specifications
- Approval
- Condition
- New
- Manufacturer
- Alaska Bushwheels, Inc.
- Dimensions
- N/A
- Weight
- 5.2 lbs
- Unit of Measure
- Each
- McFarlane Part Number
- ABI-51215
Product Description
ABI PA-18 T3 Tailwheel Suspension
ABI-51215 Suspension System
Heavy-duty coil-over tail suspension system for experimental PA-18 aircraft and direct copies. Provides 1,500 lbs/in compression, calibrated to cushion landing impact without being abrupt or overly compliant. Includes coil-over shock with limited rebound. Bolt-on replacement compatible with Scott or ABI 3200 single-bolt tailwheel setups. Typical installation time under one hour. Experimental use only.
For aircraft regularly operated at or near gross weight, or frequently flown in rough backcountry conditions, the dual-shock T3 (ABI-51343) is recommended.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 16" x 2"
- Weight: 5.2 lbs
- Spring compression: 1,500 lbs/in
- Max gross weight: 2,000 lbs
- Compatible with: Scott or ABI 3200 single-bolt tailwheel
WARNING: Cancer and/or Reproductive Harm - California Proposition 65 Resources
FAQs
What aircraft is the ABI-51215 T3 suspension designed for?
The ABI-51215 is designed for experimental PA-18 aircraft and direct PA-18 copies. It is for experimental use only and is not FAA STC approved for certified aircraft.
What is the spring compression rating and gross weight limit for the ABI-51215?
The ABI-51215 provides 1,500 lbs/in of compression and is rated for a maximum gross weight of 2,000 lbs.
What are the dimensions and weight of the ABI-51215?
The ABI-51215 measures 16" x 2" and weighs 5.2 lbs.
What tailwheel configurations are compatible with the ABI-51215?
The ABI-51215 is compatible with Scott or ABI 3200 single-bolt tailwheel setups.
When should I choose the ABI-51215 versus the dual shock ABI-51343 for a PA-18?
The ABI-51215 single shock T3 is suited to experimental PA-18 aircraft operating within a 2,000 lb gross weight. For aircraft regularly operated at or near gross weight, or frequently flown in rough backcountry conditions, the dual shock T3 (ABI-51343) is recommended. Note that the ABI-51343 is the only STC-approved option for certified PA-18 aircraft.
How long does it take to install the ABI-51215?
Typical installation time is under one hour.
What is the T3 tailwheel suspension system and how does it work?
The T3 is a coil-over style tail suspension system that replaces the OEM leaf spring with one or two coil springs and an oil shock working together. The coil springs absorb the initial landing impact while the shock controls rebound, reducing bounce and fuselage stress. The result is improved pilot control during landing rollout, takeoff, and taxi across all surface types.
Does the T3 suspension use the existing fuselage attachment points?
Yes. All T3 systems are designed as bolt-on replacements using the existing factory attachment points. No airframe modifications are required.
Does installing a T3 suspension require a weight and balance revision?
Yes. Weight and balance must be updated after installation and appropriate logbook and maintenance record entries are required.
How do I know which T3 suspension to buy for my aircraft?
Refer to the T3 Approved Model List (ABI-DST3-AML) for certified aircraft applications. For experimental aircraft, select based on your aircraft make and model, gross weight, and whether you need FAA STC approval. Contact Airframes Alaska directly if your aircraft is not listed.
Where can I get replacement parts or technical support for an ABI T3 suspension?
Contact Airframes Alaska / ABI LLC directly. Phone: 907-331-4480. Website: www.airframesalaska.com. Address: 81 E. Commercial Drive, Palmer, AK 99645.
Are there airworthiness limitations associated with the T3 suspension systems?
No. The certified T3 systems (ABI-51343 and ABI-51525) have no new or additional airworthiness limitations beyond what is required under FAR 43.16 and 91.403.
