What aircraft is the ABI-51343 T3 suspension approved for?

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.

What does the ABI-51343 T3 suspension system weigh and what are its dimensions?

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

What is the spring/shock compression rating for the ABI-51343?

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.

What tailwheel is compatible with the ABI-51343?

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

How does the ABI-51343 T3 dual shock system compare to a standard tailspring for the PA-18?

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.

Do the T3 preload and rebound settings need to be adjusted at installation?

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.

What is the correct factory setting for rebound damping on the ABI-51343?

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.

What is the correct factory preload setting on the ABI-51343?

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.

How do I test if the ABI-51343 shocks are still working correctly?

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.

How do I check for bushing wear on the ABI-51343?

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.

Does the ABI-51343 require any additional maintenance beyond the annual?

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.

What do I do if there is no rebound damping from the ABI-51343 shocks?

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).

What should I do if the ABI-51343 shows excessive or limited vertical travel?

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

Is the ABI-51343 STC paperwork available separately?

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

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.

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Home / Shop Parts / ABI-51343

Drop Testing Tailsprings: Steel vs. Titanium vs. Dual Shock

P/N: ABI-51343

Name: T3 DUAL SHOCK TAILWHEEL SUSPENSION, PA18
Brand: Alaska Gear Company
SKU: ABI-51343
Price: 1350.0 USD
Availability: BackOrder

T3 DUAL SHOCK TAILWHEEL SUSPENSION, PA18

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Approval	FAA PMA STC
Condition	New
Manufacturer	Alaska Gear Company
Dimensions	N/A
Weight	5.2 lbs
Unit of Measure	Each
Retail Price	$1,687.50
Your Price	$1,350.00
Stock Status	Expected ship date is 06-16-2026. Notify me when it's back in stock Email *

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ABI PA-18 T3 Dual Shock Tailwheel Suspension System

ABI-51343 Tail Shock
Coil-over tail suspension system for certified and experimental Piper PA-18 Super Cubs. Replaces conventional leaf spring suspension with dual coil springs and oil shocks for superior energy absorption during landing. Adjustable pre-load (via spring perch nut) and rebound damping (via top adjustment knob). Factory settings are pre-optimized; routine inspection during pre-flight is all that is required for maintenance. Includes structural mounting brackets and side fixture plates secured with AN hardware.

Specifications: