Length of nose strut

I have an older 601. On landing it "slams" down on the nose wheel. On takeoff it takes a hard pull to get the nose up and then it over rotates causing an interesting series of gyrations.

I had a post previously and a reply staTed they installed a longer nose wheel strut.

I installed the Eggenfelner spring and it doesn't appear normal.

Also, on landing and taxi the main gear feels very stiff. I have never seen the top plate move, is this normal?

Thanks for your help.

Ray

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Permalink Reply by David Gallagher on February 23, 2017 at 11:47am

Ray,

My 2006 era 601XL nose gear leg is 795mm long.  This is from the top of the tube to the bottom of the plate that bolts to the nose wheel forks.  As has been stated in earlier posts on this same topic, FWF weight and the position of the main gear legs will affect the weight on the nose gear. 

Dave

Permalink Reply by Ray Toews on February 23, 2017 at 12:59pm

Dave, Thanks for the response.

I will measure my strut, and I am aware of the discussion on the position of the main wheel forks.

Has the length of the nose strut length ever changed in the evolution of the low wing design?

If any one has any comments on the stiffness of my main gear I would appreciate hearing them.

Mine rides like the proverbial lumber wagon. Doesn't seem to be any spring to it at all. It seems to be a very simple system not subject to seizing. 

For example, when taxiing over a bump or a rough edge do you ever see that plate on top of the strut Rise?

Ray

Permalink Reply by Chris Beebe on February 24, 2017 at 10:06am

My 601 hd gear is stiff also. I feel this is just how it is designed. I wouldnt worry about that. As far as your slamming and rotation issues go, sounds like something else may need to be addressed. I will note that I have the factory nose gear. 

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