Here's the base retract:

http://www.pw-rc.com/product_info.ph...oducts_id/1943

Not too shabby for $16.00!

The E-Flite 10-15 Steering Arm cost about half that. http://www.e-fliterc.com/Products/De...ProdID=EFLG113

I think the above listed assembly is a steerable version of this retract

http://www.pz-servos.com/en/products...etail&P_Id=835


Here's how I modified this small E-Tract unit to fit into the E-Flite P51B's existing tail wheel opening and to steer via a pushrod linkage.

I will add text when I get a chance. For the time being, the photos are self-explanatory



Parts





E-Flite 10-15 Steering Arm Modifications Required





E-Tract Unit Disassembly





E-Tract Unit Modifications Required


Strut Modification





Trunnion Modification



E-Tract Right Housing Modifications




Reassemble




Fabricate and Install a Bottom Mounting Plate





Install Pushrod Guide Plate - Note the Tubing Bushing




E-Tract Installation

Start the insertion in the deepest part of the retract bay, the front. Use a clockwise twisting motion and wiggle if needed. Insertion should NOT require any force. The unit will go in freely if it is turned in at the correct angles.

Step 1 Step 2

Step 3 Step 4




Drill Mounting Holes




Remove, Install Pushrod and Steering Linkages


The only way I can make this easier is to do it for you!

Wow, blundering boob free instructions........excellent documentation!!!Thanks a bunch

Regards
Mike

Originally Posted by flmlm

Wow, blundering boob free instructions........excellent documentation!!!Thanks a bunch

Regards
Mike

Thanks Mike!

I can't tell you how many different servoless retracts I've tested, how many different steering linkage configurations I've tested and how many tries it took to make it fit into the tiny, shallow opening of the P51B. I settled on this setup because it is the lightest E-Tract and the most reliable steering linkage I could come up with. Total weight is 1.25 ounces, including the mounting plate, E-Flite Steering Arm and clevis.

I may elaborate a bit or add more pictures at a later time, but I think what I've posted is fairly self-explanatory. If you have any questions let me know?

Regards,

Anthony

Anthony

Your diligence is appreciated thats what these groups are all about modellers helping modellers.

Regards
Mike

Originally Posted by flmlm

Anthony

Your diligence is appreciated thats what these groups are all about modellers helping modellers.

Regards
Mike

Please post some pics of your setup when it's complete and feel free to PM me if you need some help.

Regards,

Anthony

I was thinking about what about some tail wheel gear doors...perhaps something like the set up on the FMS Mustang....wouild be nice to have the tailwheel bay covered when retracted.....just isn't much room inside. Just a thought that I'm kicking around....

Regards
Mike

Originally Posted by flmlm

I was thinking about what about some tail wheel gear doors...perhaps something like the set up on the FMS Mustang....wouild be nice to have the tailwheel bay covered when retracted.....just isn't much room inside. Just a thought that I'm kicking around....

Regards
Mike

Mike,

I am happy that the E-Tract fits! There is physically no room to spare when installing the assembled E-Tract into the the retract bay. Therefore, any hinges would be in the way. Now, if the hinges and doors can be added after the E-Tract is inside of the retract bay and made removable for servicing the retract, then I don't see any reason why it is not doable. If you figure out how to install gear doors please share. For the time being, I am happy that I don't have to look at a tail wheel hanging down or watch it retract in the wrong direction.

Now if the automotive paint supplier ever comes through with an Olive Drab that matches the Oracover I'll be able to finish my plane.

Regards,

Anthony