REFLECTOR: Shimmy -- Locking Nose Gear

[Andy Millin]

At the Velocity dinner at OSH this year they had an inventive builder
demonstrate his locking pin.  It was actuated with a T handle much like our
heater flap.  He engages the pin before applying power and gets no shimmy.
I don't remember the inventors name, he is probably on the reflector.

I saw the plane, but didn't know at the time to look for the locking pin.

Duane Swing seemed impressed with the idea to the point of possibly
including it on new kits.  He also added that if you maintain the nose gear
properly, tighten it to factory specs, and check it as part of pre-flight,
you shouldn't have any problems.  I don't believe ease of steering was
discussed.

It seems like the locking pin might weight less than the counterweight
solution.

FWIW,

Andy