T3 DUAL SHOCK TAILWHEEL SUSPENSION, PA18

The ABI-51343 is FAA STC approved (SA00417BO) for certified Piper PA-18 Super Cubs. It is also compatible with experimental Piper and SQ model aircraft.

The ABI-51343 weighs 6.6 lbs and measures 16" x 3".

The T3 dual shock system provides a total spring and shock compression rating of 2,000 lbs. It is approved for certified PA-18 aircraft with a gross weight up to 2,500 lbs.

The ABI-51343 is compatible with the ABI 3200 Series single-bolt tailwheel.

The T3 replaces the OEM leaf spring with dual coil springs and oil shocks working in tandem. This significantly reduces fuselage stress on landing, minimizes bounce and rebound, and improves pilot control during landing rollout, takeoff, and taxi. For aircraft operated regularly at or near gross weight, or frequently in rough backcountry conditions, the T3 dual shock system is recommended over single-spring options.

No. Both settings are factory-set to the optimal position and are not intended to be changed. Pilots should verify the settings are maintained at each preflight inspection.

Turn the adjustment knob all the way to "Slow" (the negative/minus direction), then back off one click toward "Fast." This is the factory preset and should be verified at each preflight.

With the tail unloaded (not resting on the ground), tighten the lower spring perch nut to its initial contact with the spring, then add one full additional turn. At each preflight, grab the coil spring and check for any free play between the spring and the spring perches — any looseness means the nut may have backed off.

Turn the rebound knob all the way to "Slow." Lift the tail of the empty aircraft to waist height and drop it. The system should compress and return to static position within 1 to 2 oscillations. More than 2 oscillations means the shock should be replaced.

Inspect the bushings in the side plates at the pivot points. If the inner diameter has worn more than 0.010" above the nominal bolt diameter for that attach point, ABI recommends replacing the bushing.

No new airworthiness limitations are added. At each 100-hour or annual inspection, inspect and service per the T3 ICA (ABI-DST3-ICA). The T3 requires no routine lubrication.

First verify the rebound setting is correct per the factory spec. If the setting is correct and damping is still absent, replace the shock(s).

Check that the spring preload is set correctly. If preload is correct, inspect the springs for damage or breakage and replace as needed.

Yes. STC paperwork only for SA00417BO is available under part number SA00417BO for owners who need the documentation separately.

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.

Yes. All T3 systems are designed as bolt-on replacements using the existing factory attachment points. No airframe modifications are required.

Yes. Weight and balance must be updated after installation and appropriate logbook and maintenance record entries are required.

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.

Contact Airframes Alaska / ABI LLC directly. Phone: 907-331-4480. Website: www.airframesalaska.com. Address: 81 E. Commercial Drive, Palmer, AK 99645.

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.