Spring Gear fix ???

[Mike Davis]

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From: "Alister Yeoman" <yeoman@voyager.co.nz>
To: "Murphy Rebel" <murphy-rebel@dcsol.com>
Subject: Re: Spring Gear fix ???
Date: Fri, 22 Jan 1999 12:22:23 +1300
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Jim,

No, you're right, it ain't no Maule! It's Better!!!

I think we've got to keep things in perspective here, with the problems
I've had with the gear, engine mount etc. you would think I would have
every right to feel a bit brassed off with the whole thing. In fact I am
not, admittedly pulling the aircraft to bits again was a real pain, but the
end result is really worth it. I've got an aircraft here that is just the
envy of everyone. A few weeks back I teamed up with a 235hp Maule and we
headed south to fiordland and spent day doing the airstrips in that area,
some of them are really challenging. With similar payloads my Rebel
performed every bit as good as the Maule, take off distances were very
similar, landing distances a bit shorter, the Maule had to pull a bit of
power back to stay with me in the cruise but when we pulled up to the fuel
pump I know which aircraft I would rather be filling up!

The visibility is absolutely stunning in the Rebel and it is the sort of
aircraft you just 'strap on your back' and fly away. Obviously being on
experimental and with a brand new airframe, maintenance costs are way back
on that of a Maule. And for less money you own a new aircraft verses
something decades old.

The Maule pilot came back blown away by the capabilities of the Rebel, his
statement was " That has got to be the best plane in New Zealand!" I, of
course, agreed!!!

These issues in regards to the 'Floatfix' and spring gear etc. just have to
be worked through, the end result is a aircraft that you can have complete
confidence in.

All issue I've dealt with regarding the Rebel have been when the the
aircraft comes in contact with the ground (and rough ground at that!), and
as you say hanging heavier motors on the front, in the air, it's bullet
proof. Work through those problems and the road is clear ahead.

Stay positive !!

Alister
----------

From: James A. Remington <jaremington@earthlink.net>
To: (Murphy Rebel) <murphy-rebel@dcsol.com>
Subject: Re: Spring Gear fix ???
Date: Friday, January 22, 1999 11:16 AM

Alister: The set I have now is a replacement for the first set. The

first set

was so bad that the left and right leg were off by 3 inches when clamped

to a

table and one had positive camber and the other had negative camber. No

amount

of shims could have corrected that. Goodness knows how the aircraft

would have

tracked on the ground and one wing tip would have been a least a foot

lower

than the other. The second set was just about as bad so I did not try

for a

third set. Again, no wedges or instructions were included with either

set.

On a different tact, I doubt if the aircraft was ever designed to take

the

concentrated torque load that this spring gear generates at the attach

point.

Your fix may have resolved that but Murphy's approach to all of these
structural failures is to 1) deny they exist 2) when that won't work,

slap on

a doubler of paper thin aluminum and hope it goes away.

This has been the case with cracks due to ever increasing engine weight,

seat

failures, tail cone buckling, etc. I realize it is an experimental but I

think

Murphy lets his ego and the bottom line get ahead of owning up to weak

points

and letting all kit owners know of potential problems. We kit owners are

also

at fault for taking an overgrown ultralight and trying to make it into an
C172. The original design wasn't bad. Everything was basically in

harmony

including that 80 HP rotax. When we keep hanging heavier and heavier

things on

that airframe, I think we are asking for trouble. It ain't no Maule!

jar



Alister Yeoman wrote:

Jim,

You've tried Murphy for a replacement on them? If they are not right

they

should be replaced, mine were absolutely perfect!

Alister
----------

From: James A. Remington <jaremington@earthlink.net>
To: (Murphy Rebel) <murphy-rebel@dcsol.com>
Subject: Re: Spring Gear fix ???
Date: Friday, January 22, 1999 7:05 AM

Alister: I showed the gear to an EAA friend who knows a good bit

about

such

things and he said that to make them match they would have to be

softened, bent

and then tempered again to the original condition. This work must be

done by a

shop that really know heat treating of aluminum. He is also the one

that

said

the legs should have been gun drilled for the hydraulic lines before

they

were

bent the first time.

Jim

Alister Yeoman wrote:

spring

gear

has

its

instructions

between

combination

of

caster

that

step.

consider

bookends.

Murphy

with,

it

solid

cheaper

supplied

in

them. I

the

fuse.

bigger

aircraft,

I

is

a

book

using

rear of

visible

but

you

would

block

make

any

was

very

they

Hanging

the

two

gear

wondering

aircraft

to

they

the

outer

diameter

to

the

corner

against

move a

quite

of

the

then

from

the

a

fact

inserts

AN3

really

to do

have

been

sorted

by

outer

gear

but

is

no

left

off

rolled

rows

of

bolts,

this

and

850-6

rough

more

about

any

it

stengthen

the

it.

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[Mike Davis]

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From: "James A. Remington" <jaremington@earthlink.net>
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Subject: Re: Spring Gear fix ???
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Alister: Thanks for the up lift. I have not given up but I do plan to keep
it
light. Right now I am thinking of using the Jabaru engine. I have a Subaru
Legacy and a redrive but I am not sure I have the skills or time to make it
work. If not the Jabaru then probably the Rotax. I flew the Rebel when it
first showed up at Sun 'n Fun with the Rotax. I few it the next year with
the
O-240 and again the next year with the 0-320. For my needs the Rotax or
similar will do just fine. Then I can sell the Maule.

By the way, if you are into the internet you can take a look at my grass
strip
at the following web site.
http://home.earthlink.net/~jaremington/ ... irport.htm
It's not much but it keeps me sharp with the Maule and someday the Rebel.

Again, thanks for the boost.

jar

Alister Yeoman wrote:

Jim,

No, you're right, it ain't no Maule! It's Better!!!

I think we've got to keep things in perspective here, with the problems
I've had with the gear, engine mount etc. you would think I would have
every right to feel a bit brassed off with the whole thing. In fact I am
not, admittedly pulling the aircraft to bits again was a real pain, but

the

end result is really worth it. I've got an aircraft here that is just the
envy of everyone. A few weeks back I teamed up with a 235hp Maule and we
headed south to fiordland and spent day doing the airstrips in that area,
some of them are really challenging. With similar payloads my Rebel
performed every bit as good as the Maule, take off distances were very
similar, landing distances a bit shorter, the Maule had to pull a bit of
power back to stay with me in the cruise but when we pulled up to the fuel
pump I know which aircraft I would rather be filling up!

The visibility is absolutely stunning in the Rebel and it is the sort of
aircraft you just 'strap on your back' and fly away. Obviously being on
experimental and with a brand new airframe, maintenance costs are way back
on that of a Maule. And for less money you own a new aircraft verses
something decades old.

The Maule pilot came back blown away by the capabilities of the Rebel, his
statement was " That has got to be the best plane in New Zealand!" I, of
course, agreed!!!

These issues in regards to the 'Floatfix' and spring gear etc. just have

to

be worked through, the end result is a aircraft that you can have complete
confidence in.

All issue I've dealt with regarding the Rebel have been when the the
aircraft comes in contact with the ground (and rough ground at that!), and
as you say hanging heavier motors on the front, in the air, it's bullet
proof. Work through those problems and the road is clear ahead.

Stay positive !!

Alister
----------

From: James A. Remington <jaremington@earthlink.net>
To: (Murphy Rebel) <murphy-rebel@dcsol.com>
Subject: Re: Spring Gear fix ???
Date: Friday, January 22, 1999 11:16 AM

Alister: The set I have now is a replacement for the first set. The

first set

was so bad that the left and right leg were off by 3 inches when clamped

to a

table and one had positive camber and the other had negative camber. No

amount

of shims could have corrected that. Goodness knows how the aircraft

would have

tracked on the ground and one wing tip would have been a least a foot

lower

than the other. The second set was just about as bad so I did not try

for a

third set. Again, no wedges or instructions were included with either

set.

On a different tact, I doubt if the aircraft was ever designed to take

the

concentrated torque load that this spring gear generates at the attach

point.

Your fix may have resolved that but Murphy's approach to all of these
structural failures is to 1) deny they exist 2) when that won't work,

slap on

a doubler of paper thin aluminum and hope it goes away.

This has been the case with cracks due to ever increasing engine weight,

seat

failures, tail cone buckling, etc. I realize it is an experimental but

I

think

Murphy lets his ego and the bottom line get ahead of owning up to weak

points

and letting all kit owners know of potential problems. We kit owners

are

also

at fault for taking an overgrown ultralight and trying to make it into

an

C172. The original design wasn't bad. Everything was basically in

harmony

including that 80 HP rotax. When we keep hanging heavier and heavier

things on

that airframe, I think we are asking for trouble. It ain't no Maule!

jar



Alister Yeoman wrote:

Jim,

You've tried Murphy for a replacement on them? If they are not right

they

should be replaced, mine were absolutely perfect!

Alister
----------

about

such softened, bent

be

done by a

that

said

they

were

spring

gear

has

its instructions between

combination

of caster

that

step. consider bookends.

official

Murphy

with,

it solid

cheaper

supplied

in

require

them. I

the

the

fuse. bigger

aircraft,

I

there

is

a

The

book using

the

rear of

visible

but

you

would

block

make

any

was

very

why

they

Hanging

the

two

gear wondering

aircraft

to

this,

they

the

outer diameter

to

the

top

corner against

is

can

move a

slack

quite

of

the

then

from

the

a

fact inserts

AN3

really

to do

have

been

sorted

by

outer

gear

on

but

is

no

left

off rolled

rows

of

bolts,

this

and

850-6

rough

more

about

any

it

stengthen

the

strengthen

it.

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[Mike Davis]

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To: <murphy-rebel@dcsol.com> (Murphy Rebel)
From: Bob Patterson <bob.patterson@canrem.com>
Subject: Re: Spring Gear fix ???
Message-Id: <E103gem-00048y-00@mail2.toronto.istar.net>
Date: Fri, 22 Jan 1999 08:29:52 -0500


Jim,
We have a former Maule owner in Northern Ontario who sold his Maule
to build the Rebel - has a Subaru Legacy on straight floats. I think he
has no regrets !!

If you don't need a 320, then my first choice would be the new
912-S (100 hp). It's light, and plenty of power for wheel flying. My
912 Rebel outperforms the O-235 in every way, except climb, with a
heavy load - light, the lighter airplane always wins !

Have heard reports of problems with the Jabiru's - valve train
problems (springs,guides, valves), etc. Perhaps Alister could confirm -
he's closer to OZ ??? All feedback appreciated - even if it's only third-
hand rumour ..... :-)

FWIW - I really LIKE the bungee gear. If you make up (or buy) RINGS
of bungee, the installation and function is better, and <i> have had NO
problems with this gear. It's about 28 lb lighter than the spring gear,
AND cheaper, and (IMHO) stronger !

If you have quality problems, Murphy WILL stand behind their products.
If you tell them exactly what you are looking for in a replacement set
of gear legs (matching, AND instructions and shims,etc.), I'm sure they
will set it right. They have had staff changes in QC and shipping, so
things are getting better. You are certainly entitled to a proper,
complete kit for the gear legs, especially since it sounds like you
bought this as an UPGRADE, after the original purchase, at a hefty price !!
(they are good people - just sometimes a little laid back - it's the
West Coast environment :-) (Canada's California !!) )

....bobp

------------------------------orig.--------------------------------------
At 09:05 PM 1/21/99 -0500, you wrote:

Alister: Thanks for the up lift. I have not given up but I do plan to

keep it

light. Right now I am thinking of using the Jabaru engine. I have a

Subaru

Legacy and a redrive but I am not sure I have the skills or time to make it
work. If not the Jabaru then probably the Rotax. I flew the Rebel when it
first showed up at Sun 'n Fun with the Rotax. I few it the next year with

the

O-240 and again the next year with the 0-320. For my needs the Rotax or
similar will do just fine. Then I can sell the Maule.

By the way, if you are into the internet you can take a look at my grass

strip

at the following web site.
http://home.earthlink.net/~jaremington/ ... irport.htm
It's not much but it keeps me sharp with the Maule and someday the Rebel.

Again, thanks for the boost.

jar

Alister Yeoman wrote:

Jim,

No, you're right, it ain't no Maule! It's Better!!!

I think we've got to keep things in perspective here, with the problems
I've had with the gear, engine mount etc. you would think I would have
every right to feel a bit brassed off with the whole thing. In fact I am
not, admittedly pulling the aircraft to bits again was a real pain, but

the

end result is really worth it. I've got an aircraft here that is just the
envy of everyone. A few weeks back I teamed up with a 235hp Maule and we
headed south to fiordland and spent day doing the airstrips in that area,
some of them are really challenging. With similar payloads my Rebel
performed every bit as good as the Maule, take off distances were very
similar, landing distances a bit shorter, the Maule had to pull a bit of
power back to stay with me in the cruise but when we pulled up to the

fuel

pump I know which aircraft I would rather be filling up!

The visibility is absolutely stunning in the Rebel and it is the sort of
aircraft you just 'strap on your back' and fly away. Obviously being on
experimental and with a brand new airframe, maintenance costs are way

back

on that of a Maule. And for less money you own a new aircraft verses
something decades old.

The Maule pilot came back blown away by the capabilities of the Rebel,

his

statement was " That has got to be the best plane in New Zealand!" I, of
course, agreed!!!

These issues in regards to the 'Floatfix' and spring gear etc. just have

to

be worked through, the end result is a aircraft that you can have

complete

confidence in.

All issue I've dealt with regarding the Rebel have been when the the
aircraft comes in contact with the ground (and rough ground at that!),

and

as you say hanging heavier motors on the front, in the air, it's bullet
proof. Work through those problems and the road is clear ahead.

Stay positive !!

Alister
----------

From: James A. Remington <jaremington@earthlink.net>
To: (Murphy Rebel) <murphy-rebel@dcsol.com>
Subject: Re: Spring Gear fix ???
Date: Friday, January 22, 1999 11:16 AM

Alister: The set I have now is a replacement for the first set. The

first set

was so bad that the left and right leg were off by 3 inches when

clamped

to a

table and one had positive camber and the other had negative camber.

No

amount

of shims could have corrected that. Goodness knows how the aircraft

would have

tracked on the ground and one wing tip would have been a least a foot

lower

than the other. The second set was just about as bad so I did not try

for a

third set. Again, no wedges or instructions were included with either

set.

On a different tact, I doubt if the aircraft was ever designed to take

the

concentrated torque load that this spring gear generates at the attach

point.

Your fix may have resolved that but Murphy's approach to all of these
structural failures is to 1) deny they exist 2) when that won't work,

slap on

a doubler of paper thin aluminum and hope it goes away.

This has been the case with cracks due to ever increasing engine

weight,

seat

failures, tail cone buckling, etc. I realize it is an experimental but

I

think

Murphy lets his ego and the bottom line get ahead of owning up to weak

points

and letting all kit owners know of potential problems. We kit owners

are

also

at fault for taking an overgrown ultralight and trying to make it into

an

C172. The original design wasn't bad. Everything was basically in

harmony

including that 80 HP rotax. When we keep hanging heavier and heavier

things on

that airframe, I think we are asking for trouble. It ain't no Maule!

jar



Alister Yeoman wrote:

they

about

be

one

that

before

they

spring

certainly

has

combination

that

official

with,

the

cheaper

supplied

require

absorb

the

the

the

aircraft,

there

is

The

up

the

visible

you

block

make

was

why

Hanging

by

two

aircraft

this,

the

to

top

sitting

is

can

slack

happening

of

then

from

for

a

three

AN3

to do

have

sorted

outer

on

but

bolt

is

left

rows

bolts,

up )

and

850-6

rough

more

about

any

[/quote]and

it

stengthen

the

[/quote]strengthen

it.

[/quote]



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[Mike Davis]

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Date: Fri, 22 Jan 1999 09:49:48 -0500
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To: " (Murphy Rebel)" <murphy-rebel@dcsol.com>
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Bob: Thanks for the input. I have just about decided to stick with the
bungee
gear. Weight would be the main reason. My only interest in the spring gear
was to
get the wider wheel base and lower center of gravity, thinking it would
reduce the
chance of ground looping. My only complaint with my Maule is its narrow
wheel base
which make it a bear in crosswind landing.

Yes, my spring gear was an upgread. I bought one of the early Rebel kits
with all
its shortcomings. You are probably right about the Rotax. It certainly is
building
a good track record but the the Jabiru may do so in time.

jar

Bob Patterson wrote:

Jim,
We have a former Maule owner in Northern Ontario who sold his Maule
to build the Rebel - has a Subaru Legacy on straight floats. I think he
has no regrets !!

If you don't need a 320, then my first choice would be the new
912-S (100 hp). It's light, and plenty of power for wheel flying. My
912 Rebel outperforms the O-235 in every way, except climb, with a
heavy load - light, the lighter airplane always wins !

Have heard reports of problems with the Jabiru's - valve train
problems (springs,guides, valves), etc. Perhaps Alister could confirm -
he's closer to OZ ??? All feedback appreciated - even if it's only third-
hand rumour ..... :-)

FWIW - I really LIKE the bungee gear. If you make up (or buy) RINGS
of bungee, the installation and function is better, and <i> have had NO
problems with this gear. It's about 28 lb lighter than the spring gear,
AND cheaper, and (IMHO) stronger !

If you have quality problems, Murphy WILL stand behind their products.
If you tell them exactly what you are looking for in a replacement set
of gear legs (matching, AND instructions and shims,etc.), I'm sure they
will set it right. They have had staff changes in QC and shipping, so
things are getting better. You are certainly entitled to a proper,
complete kit for the gear legs, especially since it sounds like you
bought this as an UPGRADE, after the original purchase, at a hefty price

!!

(they are good people - just sometimes a little laid back - it's the
West Coast environment :-) (Canada's California !!) )

....bobp

------------------------------orig.--------------------------------------
At 09:05 PM 1/21/99 -0500, you wrote:

Alister: Thanks for the up lift. I have not given up but I do plan to

keep it

light. Right now I am thinking of using the Jabaru engine. I have a

Subaru

Legacy and a redrive but I am not sure I have the skills or time to make

it

work. If not the Jabaru then probably the Rotax. I flew the Rebel when

it

first showed up at Sun 'n Fun with the Rotax. I few it the next year

with the

O-240 and again the next year with the 0-320. For my needs the Rotax or
similar will do just fine. Then I can sell the Maule.

By the way, if you are into the internet you can take a look at my grass

strip

at the following web site.
http://home.earthlink.net/~jaremington/ ... irport.htm
It's not much but it keeps me sharp with the Maule and someday the Rebel.

Again, thanks for the boost.

jar

Alister Yeoman wrote:

Jim,

No, you're right, it ain't no Maule! It's Better!!!

I think we've got to keep things in perspective here, with the problems
I've had with the gear, engine mount etc. you would think I would have
every right to feel a bit brassed off with the whole thing. In fact I

am

not, admittedly pulling the aircraft to bits again was a real pain, but

the

end result is really worth it. I've got an aircraft here that is just

the

envy of everyone. A few weeks back I teamed up with a 235hp Maule and

we

headed south to fiordland and spent day doing the airstrips in that

area,

some of them are really challenging. With similar payloads my Rebel
performed every bit as good as the Maule, take off distances were very
similar, landing distances a bit shorter, the Maule had to pull a bit

of

power back to stay with me in the cruise but when we pulled up to the

fuel

pump I know which aircraft I would rather be filling up!

The visibility is absolutely stunning in the Rebel and it is the sort

of

aircraft you just 'strap on your back' and fly away. Obviously being on
experimental and with a brand new airframe, maintenance costs are way

back

on that of a Maule. And for less money you own a new aircraft verses
something decades old.

The Maule pilot came back blown away by the capabilities of the Rebel,

his

statement was " That has got to be the best plane in New Zealand!" I,

of

course, agreed!!!

These issues in regards to the 'Floatfix' and spring gear etc. just

have to

be worked through, the end result is a aircraft that you can have

complete

confidence in.

All issue I've dealt with regarding the Rebel have been when the the
aircraft comes in contact with the ground (and rough ground at that!),

and

as you say hanging heavier motors on the front, in the air, it's bullet
proof. Work through those problems and the road is clear ahead.

Stay positive !!

Alister
---------- first set

clamped

to a

No

amount would have lower

try

for a

either

set.

take

the

attach

point.

work,

slap on

weight,

seat

but I

think

weak

points

are

also

into an

harmony things on

right

they about

must be

one

that

before

they spring

old

certainly

has

difference

combination

and

that

also

official

up

with,

the

cheaper supplied

require

absorb

the

the

the

aircraft,

there

is

The

up

the

visible

if

you block make

I

was

why

Hanging

by

two

was

aircraft

[/quote]this,

[/quote]holds

the

[/quote]close

to

[/quote]top

[/quote]sitting

[/quote]gear is

[/quote]can

[/quote]slack

[/quote]happening

[/quote]because

of

[/quote]and

then

[/quote]away

from

[/quote]for

a

[/quote]block

[/quote]three

AN3

[/quote]works

[/quote]of

to do

[/quote]say,

have

sorted

[/quote]very

[/quote]rear

outer

[/quote]riveted on

but

[/quote]bolt

is

[/quote]be

left

[/quote]lower

[/quote]two

rows

bolts,

[/quote]up )

and

[/quote]fitted

850-6

[/quote]very

rough

more

about

any

[/quote][/quote]and

it

stengthen

the

[/quote][/quote]strengthen

it.

[/quote][/quote]



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[Mike Davis]

Received: from [137.186.225.17] (helo=ms01-271.tor.istar.ca)
by mail2.toronto.istar.net with smtp (Exim 1.92 #2)
for murphy-rebel@dcsol.com
id 103j6F-0006U1-00; Fri, 22 Jan 1999 11:06:23 -0500
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Mime-Version: 1.0
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"
To: <murphy-rebel@dcsol.com> (Murphy Rebel)
From: Bob Patterson <bob.patterson@canrem.com>
Subject: Re: Spring Gear fix ???
Message-Id: <E103j6F-0006U1-00@mail2.toronto.istar.net>
Date: Fri, 22 Jan 1999 11:06:23 -0500

Don't worry !! I've flown a Maule, and the Rebel with the bungee gear
is a DREAM to land by comparison. On wheels, I've landed with a 90 degree
crosswind of 25 mph on pavement with no problem !! You can almost hold a
wing down right to the tiedown !! On amphibs, I've landed with a 45 degree
crosswind that was gusting to 47 mph on the wind meter - NO problem !!
The amphibs make the Rebel as stable as a flatcar !!

The other thing that is MUCH better in the Rebel is the visibility !!
It's almost like a heckicopter if you add skylights !!

Will be interested in the feedback on the Jabiru - hope we get some !

Sorry for your problems with the spring gear - there is a chance they
might give you a refund or credit, if you wanted to return it.

....bobp
-----------------------------orig.-----------------------------------
At 09:49 AM 1/22/99 -0500, you wrote:

Bob: Thanks for the input. I have just about decided to stick with the

bungee

gear. Weight would be the main reason. My only interest in the spring

gear was to

get the wider wheel base and lower center of gravity, thinking it would

reduce the

chance of ground looping. My only complaint with my Maule is its narrow

wheel base

which make it a bear in crosswind landing.

Yes, my spring gear was an upgread. I bought one of the early Rebel kits

with all

its shortcomings. You are probably right about the Rotax. It certainly is

building

a good track record but the the Jabiru may do so in time.

jar

Bob Patterson wrote:

Jim,
We have a former Maule owner in Northern Ontario who sold his Maule
to build the Rebel - has a Subaru Legacy on straight floats. I think he
has no regrets !!

If you don't need a 320, then my first choice would be the new
912-S (100 hp). It's light, and plenty of power for wheel flying. My
912 Rebel outperforms the O-235 in every way, except climb, with a
heavy load - light, the lighter airplane always wins !

Have heard reports of problems with the Jabiru's - valve train
problems (springs,guides, valves), etc. Perhaps Alister could confirm -
he's closer to OZ ??? All feedback appreciated - even if it's only

third-

hand rumour ..... :-)

FWIW - I really LIKE the bungee gear. If you make up (or buy) RINGS
of bungee, the installation and function is better, and <i> have had NO
problems with this gear. It's about 28 lb lighter than the spring gear,
AND cheaper, and (IMHO) stronger !

If you have quality problems, Murphy WILL stand behind their products.
If you tell them exactly what you are looking for in a replacement set
of gear legs (matching, AND instructions and shims,etc.), I'm sure they
will set it right. They have had staff changes in QC and shipping, so
things are getting better. You are certainly entitled to a proper,
complete kit for the gear legs, especially since it sounds like you
bought this as an UPGRADE, after the original purchase, at a hefty price

!!

(they are good people - just sometimes a little laid back - it's the
West Coast environment :-) (Canada's California !!) )

....bobp

------------------------------orig.--------------------------------------
At 09:05 PM 1/21/99 -0500, you wrote:

Alister: Thanks for the up lift. I have not given up but I do plan to

keep it

light. Right now I am thinking of using the Jabaru engine. I have a

Subaru

Legacy and a redrive but I am not sure I have the skills or time to make

it

work. If not the Jabaru then probably the Rotax. I flew the Rebel when

it

first showed up at Sun 'n Fun with the Rotax. I few it the next year

with the

O-240 and again the next year with the 0-320. For my needs the Rotax or
similar will do just fine. Then I can sell the Maule.

By the way, if you are into the internet you can take a look at my grass

strip

at the following web site.
http://home.earthlink.net/~jaremington/ ... irport.htm
It's not much but it keeps me sharp with the Maule and someday the

Rebel.

Again, thanks for the boost.

jar

Alister Yeoman wrote:

problems

am

but the

the

we

area,

of

fuel

of

on

back

his

of

have to

complete

and

bullet

The

clamped

No

foot

try

either

take

attach

these

work,

weight,

but I

weak

owners are

into an

heavier

Maule!

right

bit

must be

one

before

old

certainly

difference

and

from

also

for

official

up

the

a

require

absorb

onto the

the

there

negative. The

ended up

down the

[/quote]if

block

[/quote]can

[/quote]I

[/quote]know why

Hanging

[/quote]Since by

[/quote]was

aircraft

[/quote][/quote]this,

[/quote][/quote]holds

[/quote][/quote]wrong

[/quote][/quote]close

[/quote][/quote]the top

[/quote][/quote]sitting

[/quote][/quote]gear is

[/quote][/quote]big), can

[/quote][/quote]slack

[/quote][/quote]happening

[/quote][/quote]because

[/quote][/quote]and

[/quote][/quote]away

[/quote][/quote]for

[/quote][/quote]block

[/quote][/quote]three

[/quote][/quote]works

[/quote][/quote]of

[/quote][/quote]say,

[/quote][/quote]it

[/quote][/quote]very

[/quote][/quote]rear

[/quote][/quote]riveted on

[/quote][/quote]bolt

[/quote][/quote]be

[/quote][/quote]lower

[/quote][/quote]two

[/quote][/quote]gear

[/quote][/quote]up )

[/quote][/quote]fitted

[/quote][/quote]very

[/quote][/quote]no

about

any

[/quote][/quote][/quote]and

stengthen

the

[/quote][/quote][/quote]strengthen

[/quote][/quote]





[/quote]



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[Mike Davis]

Received: from tim-toshiba - 206.40.8.15 by email.msn.com with Microsoft
SMTPSVC;
Fri, 22 Jan 1999 11:14:50 -0800
Reply-To: <tlcarter@email.msn.com>
From: "Tim Carter" <tlcarter@email.msn.com>
To: "'Murphy Rebel'" <murphy-rebel@dcsol.com>
Subject: RE: Spring Gear fix ???
Date: Fri, 22 Jan 1999 11:02:39 -0800
Message-ID: <000b01be463b$b7cc8000$14640a0a@tim-toshiba>
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Hi gang:

My experience with MAM over stuff like this is that they are good about
replacing 'bad' parts from their mfg. process. Granted, I have never asked
for an item as big as a spring gear, but, in my case if there was an
engineering-based or quality-based reason, they heard me out and sent
replacements. Every time.

Tim

-----Original Message-----
From: James A. Remington [mailto:jaremington@earthlink.net]
Sent: Thursday, January 21, 1999 10:05 AM
To: (Murphy Rebel)
Subject: Re: Spring Gear fix ???


Alister: I showed the gear to an EAA friend who knows a good bit about such
things and he said that to make them match they would have to be softened,
bent
and then tempered again to the original condition. This work must be done
by a
shop that really know heat treating of aluminum. He is also the one that
said
the legs should have been gun drilled for the hydraulic lines before they
were
bent the first time.

Jim

Alister Yeoman wrote:

Jim,

Could the legs be pressed somehow to even them up.

It would be a shame not to use them, if the mods are done the spring gear
is really good. I have just been looking through some of the old
correspondance from this forum on the bungee gear and it certainly has its
share of problems and failures,

Stick to the spring gear!!

Alister

----------

From: James A. Remington <jaremington@earthlink.net>
To: (Murphy Rebel) <murphy-rebel@dcsol.com>
Subject: Re: Spring Gear fix ???
Date: Thursday, January 21, 1999 3:32 PM

Alister: I received no wedges with my spring gear and no instructions

for

proper rigging of the finished gear. Believe me the difference between

the left

and right leg is such that I will need quite a different combination of

wedges

on each leg to get the aircraft level and to get the camber and caster

the

same. No hurry in sending the drawing. I am a long way from that step.

I

will look at Murphy's fix if there ever is one but I will also consider
sticking with the original gear and using the spring gear for bookends.

Alister Yeoman wrote:

Jim,

I can do that, I'll get on to it over the next few days.

I do have some concerns that this is of course not the official Murphy

fix,

I would suggest you wait a little to see what Murphy comes up with, it

does

sound as though they are onto it. I also found the cost of the solid
aluminum block and milling quite excessive, they may have a cheaper

option.

My gear legs were nice and straight, aluminum wedges were supplied in

the

kit to alter toe in/out etc. although I found I did not require them.

I

think you will find the the legs quite rigid, they dont absorb the

loads as

much as I would like, those loads are then transferred onto the fuse.

That

is why with all the off field work I do I have elected for the bigger
tyres. ( 850-6).

The camber of course changes dramatically as you load the aircraft, I

think

yours would tend to even out ( I think!!), Lightly loaded there is a

lot of

positive camber, at all up weight it is noticably negative. The book

says

to set the wheels at slight toe out. Seems to work.

Yes, the brake lines can be quite messy can't they? I ended up using

all

aviation spec materials with the braided flexible line down the rear

of

the

leg clipped on with the same clips as used on a C180. Very visible but

at

least it looks, and is functional!

I'll fax that through in the next few days.

Cheers

Alister

----------

would

be

inserts

you changes with

didn't

gun

the

hydraulic

gear

legs I

what

sit

level

told

me straddle

for

the

edge

of

of

the

the

settling

in, little

develops (

it quickly, braking

starts to

there

are

for

the

bolts in

well.

The

this,

so it working

now.

frequently in

the

gear

bolt

should

be

big

drama.

until

say

corner

and

rivets

on

this

was

my

because

of

tyres.

places

and

problems.

What changes in

didn't

seem

spring

.





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[Mike Davis]

Received: from tim-toshiba - 206.40.8.15 by email.msn.com with Microsoft
SMTPSVC;
Fri, 22 Jan 1999 11:36:01 -0800
Reply-To: <tlcarter@email.msn.com>
From: "Tim Carter" <tlcarter@email.msn.com>
To: "'Murphy Rebel'" <murphy-rebel@dcsol.com>
Subject: RE: Spring Gear fix ???
Date: Fri, 22 Jan 1999 11:18:44 -0800
Message-ID: <000c01be463e$ac933dc0$14640a0a@tim-toshiba>
MIME-Version: 1.0
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James:

What engine are you running?

Tim

-----Original Message-----
From: James A. Remington [mailto:jaremington@earthlink.net]
Sent: Thursday, January 21, 1999 2:16 PM
To: (Murphy Rebel)
Subject: Re: Spring Gear fix ???


Alister: The set I have now is a replacement for the first set. The first
set
was so bad that the left and right leg were off by 3 inches when clamped to
a
table and one had positive camber and the other had negative camber. No
amount
of shims could have corrected that. Goodness knows how the aircraft would
have
tracked on the ground and one wing tip would have been a least a foot lower
than the other. The second set was just about as bad so I did not try for a
third set. Again, no wedges or instructions were included with either set.

On a different tact, I doubt if the aircraft was ever designed to take the
concentrated torque load that this spring gear generates at the attach
point.
Your fix may have resolved that but Murphy's approach to all of these
structural failures is to 1) deny they exist 2) when that won't work, slap
on
a doubler of paper thin aluminum and hope it goes away.

This has been the case with cracks due to ever increasing engine weight,
seat
failures, tail cone buckling, etc. I realize it is an experimental but I
think
Murphy lets his ego and the bottom line get ahead of owning up to weak
points
and letting all kit owners know of potential problems. We kit owners are
also
at fault for taking an overgrown ultralight and trying to make it into an
C172. The original design wasn't bad. Everything was basically in harmony
including that 80 HP rotax. When we keep hanging heavier and heavier things
on
that airframe, I think we are asking for trouble. It ain't no Maule!

jar



Alister Yeoman wrote:

Jim,

You've tried Murphy for a replacement on them? If they are not right they
should be replaced, mine were absolutely perfect!

Alister
----------

From: James A. Remington <jaremington@earthlink.net>
To: (Murphy Rebel) <murphy-rebel@dcsol.com>
Subject: Re: Spring Gear fix ???
Date: Friday, January 22, 1999 7:05 AM

Alister: I showed the gear to an EAA friend who knows a good bit about

such

things and he said that to make them match they would have to be

softened, bent

and then tempered again to the original condition. This work must be

done by a

shop that really know heat treating of aluminum. He is also the one

that

said

the legs should have been gun drilled for the hydraulic lines before

they

were

bent the first time.

Jim

Alister Yeoman wrote:

Jim,

Could the legs be pressed somehow to even them up.

It would be a shame not to use them, if the mods are done the spring

gear

is really good. I have just been looking through some of the old
correspondance from this forum on the bungee gear and it certainly has

its

share of problems and failures,

Stick to the spring gear!!

Alister

----------

instructions

for

between

the left

of

wedges

caster

the

step.

I

consider

bookends.

Murphy

fix,

with,

it

does

solid

cheaper

option.

in

the

them. I

loads as

fuse.

That

bigger

aircraft,

I

think

a

lot of

book

says

using

all

rear of

the

but

at

would

be inserts

any

very

they

didn't

Hanging

the

gear

wondering

what

to

sit

they

told

outer

diameter

for

the

edge

corner

of

against

the settling

move a

develops (

quite

the

starts to

the

fact

there

inserts

for bolts in

really

well.

do

this,

been

by

now. frequently in

gear

but

should

no

big

off

until

rolled

corner

of

rivets

this

was because tyres.

rough

places problems.

any

didn't

the

spring

it.

[Mike Davis]

Received: from tim-toshiba - 206.40.8.15 by email.msn.com with Microsoft
SMTPSVC;
Fri, 22 Jan 1999 11:36:11 -0800
Reply-To: <tlcarter@email.msn.com>
From: "Tim Carter" <tlcarter@email.msn.com>
To: "'Murphy Rebel'" <murphy-rebel@dcsol.com>
Subject: RE: Spring Gear fix ???
Date: Fri, 22 Jan 1999 11:36:04 -0800
Message-ID: <000e01be463e$b1736900$14640a0a@tim-toshiba>
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Return-Path: tlcarter@email.msn.com

Bob,

There is a guy up north who makes a steel bushing set for the Rebel bungee
gear. I know I have asked you questions about the bungee gear before, but,
I cannot remember if I asked you if you have heard of that, or seen it, used
it or would recommend it.

This was advertised in the Rouser for a long time, and I believe these
bushings are used in the tops of the gear legs where the bolt goes thru.
The stated purpose was to eliminate the gear leg hole from wobbling out over
time.

Comments?

Tim


-----Original Message-----
From: Bob Patterson [mailto:bob.patterson@canrem.com]
Sent: Friday, January 22, 1999 5:30 AM
To: Murphy Rebel
Subject: Re: Spring Gear fix ???



Jim,
We have a former Maule owner in Northern Ontario who sold his Maule
to build the Rebel - has a Subaru Legacy on straight floats. I think he
has no regrets !!

If you don't need a 320, then my first choice would be the new
912-S (100 hp). It's light, and plenty of power for wheel flying. My
912 Rebel outperforms the O-235 in every way, except climb, with a
heavy load - light, the lighter airplane always wins !

Have heard reports of problems with the Jabiru's - valve train
problems (springs,guides, valves), etc. Perhaps Alister could confirm -
he's closer to OZ ??? All feedback appreciated - even if it's only third-
hand rumour ..... :-)

FWIW - I really LIKE the bungee gear. If you make up (or buy) RINGS
of bungee, the installation and function is better, and <i> have had NO
problems with this gear. It's about 28 lb lighter than the spring gear,
AND cheaper, and (IMHO) stronger !

If you have quality problems, Murphy WILL stand behind their products.
If you tell them exactly what you are looking for in a replacement set
of gear legs (matching, AND instructions and shims,etc.), I'm sure they
will set it right. They have had staff changes in QC and shipping, so
things are getting better. You are certainly entitled to a proper,
complete kit for the gear legs, especially since it sounds like you
bought this as an UPGRADE, after the original purchase, at a hefty price !!
(they are good people - just sometimes a little laid back - it's the
West Coast environment :-) (Canada's California !!) )

....bobp

------------------------------orig.--------------------------------------
At 09:05 PM 1/21/99 -0500, you wrote:

Alister: Thanks for the up lift. I have not given up but I do plan to

keep it

light. Right now I am thinking of using the Jabaru engine. I have a

Subaru

Legacy and a redrive but I am not sure I have the skills or time to make it
work. If not the Jabaru then probably the Rotax. I flew the Rebel when it
first showed up at Sun 'n Fun with the Rotax. I few it the next year with

the

O-240 and again the next year with the 0-320. For my needs the Rotax or
similar will do just fine. Then I can sell the Maule.

By the way, if you are into the internet you can take a look at my grass

strip

at the following web site.
http://home.earthlink.net/~jaremington/ ... irport.htm
It's not much but it keeps me sharp with the Maule and someday the Rebel.

Again, thanks for the boost.

jar

Alister Yeoman wrote:

Jim,

No, you're right, it ain't no Maule! It's Better!!!

I think we've got to keep things in perspective here, with the problems
I've had with the gear, engine mount etc. you would think I would have
every right to feel a bit brassed off with the whole thing. In fact I am
not, admittedly pulling the aircraft to bits again was a real pain, but

the

end result is really worth it. I've got an aircraft here that is just the
envy of everyone. A few weeks back I teamed up with a 235hp Maule and we
headed south to fiordland and spent day doing the airstrips in that area,
some of them are really challenging. With similar payloads my Rebel
performed every bit as good as the Maule, take off distances were very
similar, landing distances a bit shorter, the Maule had to pull a bit of
power back to stay with me in the cruise but when we pulled up to the

fuel

pump I know which aircraft I would rather be filling up!

The visibility is absolutely stunning in the Rebel and it is the sort of
aircraft you just 'strap on your back' and fly away. Obviously being on
experimental and with a brand new airframe, maintenance costs are way

back

on that of a Maule. And for less money you own a new aircraft verses
something decades old.

The Maule pilot came back blown away by the capabilities of the Rebel,

his

statement was " That has got to be the best plane in New Zealand!" I, of
course, agreed!!!

These issues in regards to the 'Floatfix' and spring gear etc. just have

to

be worked through, the end result is a aircraft that you can have

complete

confidence in.

All issue I've dealt with regarding the Rebel have been when the the
aircraft comes in contact with the ground (and rough ground at that!),

and

as you say hanging heavier motors on the front, in the air, it's bullet
proof. Work through those problems and the road is clear ahead.

Stay positive !!

Alister
----------

From: James A. Remington <jaremington@earthlink.net>
To: (Murphy Rebel) <murphy-rebel@dcsol.com>
Subject: Re: Spring Gear fix ???
Date: Friday, January 22, 1999 11:16 AM

Alister: The set I have now is a replacement for the first set. The

first set

was so bad that the left and right leg were off by 3 inches when

clamped

to a

table and one had positive camber and the other had negative camber.

No

amount

of shims could have corrected that. Goodness knows how the aircraft

would have

tracked on the ground and one wing tip would have been a least a foot

lower

than the other. The second set was just about as bad so I did not try

for a

third set. Again, no wedges or instructions were included with either

set.

On a different tact, I doubt if the aircraft was ever designed to take

the

concentrated torque load that this spring gear generates at the attach

point.

Your fix may have resolved that but Murphy's approach to all of these
structural failures is to 1) deny they exist 2) when that won't work,

slap on

a doubler of paper thin aluminum and hope it goes away.

This has been the case with cracks due to ever increasing engine

weight,

seat

failures, tail cone buckling, etc. I realize it is an experimental but

I

think

Murphy lets his ego and the bottom line get ahead of owning up to weak

points

and letting all kit owners know of potential problems. We kit owners

are

also

at fault for taking an overgrown ultralight and trying to make it into

an

C172. The original design wasn't bad. Everything was basically in

harmony

including that 80 HP rotax. When we keep hanging heavier and heavier

things on

that airframe, I think we are asking for trouble. It ain't no Maule!

jar



Alister Yeoman wrote:

they

about

be

one

that

before

they

spring

certainly

has

combination

that

official

with,

the

cheaper

supplied

require

absorb

the

the

the

aircraft,

there

is

The

up

the

visible

you

block

make

was

why

Hanging

by

two

aircraft

this,

the

to

top

sitting

is

can

slack

happening

of

then

from

for

a

three

AN3

to do

have

sorted

outer

on

but

bolt

is

left

rows

bolts,

up )

and

850-6

rough

more

about

any

[/quote]and

it

stengthen

the

[/quote]strengthen

it.

[/quote]




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[Mike Davis]

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From: "Alister Yeoman" <yeoman@voyager.co.nz>
To: "Murphy Rebel" <murphy-rebel@dcsol.com>
Subject: Re: Spring Gear fix ???
Date: Sat, 23 Jan 1999 16:28:22 +1300
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Bob, lots of Jabaru motors being fitted over here to all sorts of aircraft,
they appear very reliable, I will do some research and report back.

Alister

----------

From: Bob Patterson <bob.patterson@canrem.com>
To: Murphy Rebel <murphy-rebel@dcsol.com>
Subject: Re: Spring Gear fix ???
Date: Saturday, January 23, 1999 5:06 AM

Don't worry !! I've flown a Maule, and the Rebel with the bungee

gear

is a DREAM to land by comparison. On wheels, I've landed with a 90 degree
crosswind of 25 mph on pavement with no problem !! You can almost hold a
wing down right to the tiedown !! On amphibs, I've landed with a 45

degree

crosswind that was gusting to 47 mph on the wind meter - NO problem !!
The amphibs make the Rebel as stable as a flatcar !!

The other thing that is MUCH better in the Rebel is the visibility

!!

It's almost like a heckicopter if you add skylights !!

Will be interested in the feedback on the Jabiru - hope we get some

!

Sorry for your problems with the spring gear - there is a chance

they

might give you a refund or credit, if you wanted to return it.

....bobp
-----------------------------orig.-----------------------------------
At 09:49 AM 1/22/99 -0500, you wrote:

Bob: Thanks for the input. I have just about decided to stick with the

bungee

gear. Weight would be the main reason. My only interest in the spring

gear was to

get the wider wheel base and lower center of gravity, thinking it would

reduce the

chance of ground looping. My only complaint with my Maule is its narrow

wheel base

which make it a bear in crosswind landing.

Yes, my spring gear was an upgread. I bought one of the early Rebel

kits

with all

its shortcomings. You are probably right about the Rotax. It certainly

is

building

a good track record but the the Jabiru may do so in time.

jar

Bob Patterson wrote:

Jim,
We have a former Maule owner in Northern Ontario who sold his

Maule

to build the Rebel - has a Subaru Legacy on straight floats. I think

he

has no regrets !!

If you don't need a 320, then my first choice would be the new
912-S (100 hp). It's light, and plenty of power for wheel flying. My
912 Rebel outperforms the O-235 in every way, except climb, with a
heavy load - light, the lighter airplane always wins !

Have heard reports of problems with the Jabiru's - valve train
problems (springs,guides, valves), etc. Perhaps Alister could

confirm -

he's closer to OZ ??? All feedback appreciated - even if it's only

third-

hand rumour ..... :-)

FWIW - I really LIKE the bungee gear. If you make up (or buy)

RINGS

of bungee, the installation and function is better, and <i> have had

NO

problems with this gear. It's about 28 lb lighter than the spring

gear,

AND cheaper, and (IMHO) stronger !

If you have quality problems, Murphy WILL stand behind their

products.

If you tell them exactly what you are looking for in a replacement set
of gear legs (matching, AND instructions and shims,etc.), I'm sure

they

will set it right. They have had staff changes in QC and shipping, so
things are getting better. You are certainly entitled to a proper,
complete kit for the gear legs, especially since it sounds like you
bought this as an UPGRADE, after the original purchase, at a hefty

price !!

(they are good people - just sometimes a little laid back - it's the
West Coast environment :-) (Canada's California !!) )

....bobp

------------------------------orig.--------------------------------------

At 09:05 PM 1/21/99 -0500, you wrote:

to

keep it

Subaru

make it

when it

with the

or

grass

strip

Rebel.

problems

have

I am

but the

just the

and we

area,

very

bit of

the fuel

sort of

being on

way back

verses

Rebel, his

I, of

have to

complete

the

that!), and

bullet

The

clamped

camber. No

aircraft

foot

not try

either

take

attach

these

work,

weight,

experimental

but I

weak

owners are

into an

in

heavier

Maule!

right

bit

be

must be

the one

before

the

the old

certainly

difference

camber and

from

also

for

[/quote]days.

official

[/quote]comes up

[/quote]of the

[/quote]have a

[/quote]were

require

[/quote]absorb

onto the

[/quote]for the

[/quote]the

[/quote]loaded

there

negative. The

[/quote]ended up

down the

[/quote]Very

[/quote][/quote]wonder if

[/quote][/quote]aluminum

[/quote][/quote]can

[/quote][/quote]gear. I

[/quote]know why

[/quote][/quote]bending.

[/quote][/quote]Since by

[/quote][/quote]I was

[/quote][/quote]the

[/quote][/quote][/quote]addressed

this,

[/quote][/quote][/quote]holds

[/quote][/quote][/quote]wrong

[/quote][/quote][/quote]close

[/quote][/quote]the top

[/quote][/quote][/quote]sitting

[/quote][/quote]gear is

[/quote][/quote]big), can

[/quote][/quote][/quote]little

slack

[/quote][/quote][/quote]happening

[/quote][/quote][/quote]because

[/quote][/quote][/quote]downwards and

[/quote][/quote][/quote]them away

[/quote][/quote][/quote]know for

[/quote][/quote][/quote]block

[/quote][/quote][/quote]the three

[/quote][/quote][/quote]works

[/quote][/quote][/quote]come of

[/quote][/quote][/quote]say,

[/quote][/quote][/quote]had it

[/quote][/quote][/quote]bolts very

[/quote][/quote][/quote]rear

[/quote][/quote]riveted on

[/quote][/quote][/quote]rear bolt

[/quote][/quote][/quote]should be

[/quote][/quote][/quote]lower

[/quote][/quote][/quote]put two

[/quote][/quote][/quote]gear

[/quote][/quote][/quote]doubled up )

[/quote][/quote][/quote]fitted

[/quote][/quote][/quote]some very

[/quote][/quote][/quote]anticipating no

[/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote]quiet
[quote][quote][quote][quote][quote]about
[quote][quote]any
[quote][quote][quote][quote]changes in
[quote][quote]the
[quote]area of the sping gear. I talked to Grant about
[/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote]this and
[quote][quote][quote][quote][quote]it
[quote][quote][quote][quote]didn't
[quote][quote]seem
[quote][quote]to me
[quote]that they were planning a mod or retrofit kit to
[/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote]stengthen
[quote][quote]the
[quote][quote]spring
[quote][quote][quote][quote]gear. I
[quote]would like to know what you did to the gear to
[/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote][/quote]strengthen
[quote][quote][quote][quote]it.
[quote][quote][quote][quote][quote][quote][quote][quote][quote]Thanks Jim
JimsRebel@aol.com
[/quote][/quote]
[/quote][/quote]
[/quote][/quote]
[/quote][/quote]
[/quote][/quote]




[/quote][/quote]





[/quote][/quote]

[Mike Davis]

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To: <murphy-rebel@dcsol.com> (Murphy Rebel)
From: Bob Patterson <bob.patterson@canrem.com>
Subject: RE: Spring Gear fix ???
Message-Id: <E104GpD-0000SP-00@mail2.toronto.istar.net>
Date: Sat, 23 Jan 1999 23:07:03 -0500


I haven't seen these bushings, but the photos looked like very nice parts.

They are (IMHO) absolutely NOT necessary for the Rebel IF the gear is
set up properly. They WOULD likely be a good idea if you were going to
use die springs instead of bungees. (I DO NOT think die springs are a
good idea, but several folks are using them, with no major problem
reports so far.)

The problems happen because some people think the bungees should be
loose enough so the gear moves every time you taxi over a little bump -
this is incorrect ! The bungees are supposed to be so tight that they
only allow the gear to move if there is so much load that there might
be structural damage - they are only there to protect the airframe !
The tires are the principal shock absorbing/comfort mechanism - hence
the suggestion to use the fat 800x6 tires, fairly soft, at about 12 -
18 lbs pressure.

Rebel number 001 has over 900 hr. in 8+ years, and a LOT of
grass fields, and no significant wear in the fittings. In any case,
IF wear developped, you could THEN ream out and install the bushing
set. - the old "If it ain't broke, don't fix it !" thing.

.....bobp
--------------------------------orig.----------------------------------
At 11:36 AM 1/22/99 -0800, you wrote:

Bob,

There is a guy up north who makes a steel bushing set for the Rebel bungee
gear. I know I have asked you questions about the bungee gear before, but,
I cannot remember if I asked you if you have heard of that, or seen it,

used

it or would recommend it.

This was advertised in the Rouser for a long time, and I believe these
bushings are used in the tops of the gear legs where the bolt goes thru.
The stated purpose was to eliminate the gear leg hole from wobbling out

over

time.

Comments?

Tim


-----Original Message-----
From: Bob Patterson [mailto:bob.patterson@canrem.com]
Sent: Friday, January 22, 1999 5:30 AM
To: Murphy Rebel
Subject: Re: Spring Gear fix ???



Jim,
We have a former Maule owner in Northern Ontario who sold his Maule
to build the Rebel - has a Subaru Legacy on straight floats. I think he
has no regrets !!

If you don't need a 320, then my first choice would be the new
912-S (100 hp). It's light, and plenty of power for wheel flying. My
912 Rebel outperforms the O-235 in every way, except climb, with a
heavy load - light, the lighter airplane always wins !

Have heard reports of problems with the Jabiru's - valve train
problems (springs,guides, valves), etc. Perhaps Alister could confirm -
he's closer to OZ ??? All feedback appreciated - even if it's only third-
hand rumour ..... :-)

FWIW - I really LIKE the bungee gear. If you make up (or buy) RINGS
of bungee, the installation and function is better, and <i> have had NO
problems with this gear. It's about 28 lb lighter than the spring gear,
AND cheaper, and (IMHO) stronger !

If you have quality problems, Murphy WILL stand behind their products.
If you tell them exactly what you are looking for in a replacement set
of gear legs (matching, AND instructions and shims,etc.), I'm sure they
will set it right. They have had staff changes in QC and shipping, so
things are getting better. You are certainly entitled to a proper,
complete kit for the gear legs, especially since it sounds like you
bought this as an UPGRADE, after the original purchase, at a hefty price !!
(they are good people - just sometimes a little laid back - it's the
West Coast environment :-) (Canada's California !!) )

....bobp

------------------------------orig.--------------------------------------
At 09:05 PM 1/21/99 -0500, you wrote:

Alister: Thanks for the up lift. I have not given up but I do plan to

keep it

light. Right now I am thinking of using the Jabaru engine. I have a

Subaru

Legacy and a redrive but I am not sure I have the skills or time to make

it

work. If not the Jabaru then probably the Rotax. I flew the Rebel when

it

first showed up at Sun 'n Fun with the Rotax. I few it the next year with

the

O-240 and again the next year with the 0-320. For my needs the Rotax or
similar will do just fine. Then I can sell the Maule.

By the way, if you are into the internet you can take a look at my grass

strip

at the following web site.
http://home.earthlink.net/~jaremington/ ... irport.htm
It's not much but it keeps me sharp with the Maule and someday the Rebel.

Again, thanks for the boost.

jar

Alister Yeoman wrote:

Jim,

No, you're right, it ain't no Maule! It's Better!!!

I think we've got to keep things in perspective here, with the problems
I've had with the gear, engine mount etc. you would think I would have
every right to feel a bit brassed off with the whole thing. In fact I am
not, admittedly pulling the aircraft to bits again was a real pain, but

the

end result is really worth it. I've got an aircraft here that is just

the

envy of everyone. A few weeks back I teamed up with a 235hp Maule and we
headed south to fiordland and spent day doing the airstrips in that

area,

some of them are really challenging. With similar payloads my Rebel
performed every bit as good as the Maule, take off distances were very
similar, landing distances a bit shorter, the Maule had to pull a bit of
power back to stay with me in the cruise but when we pulled up to the

fuel

pump I know which aircraft I would rather be filling up!

The visibility is absolutely stunning in the Rebel and it is the sort of
aircraft you just 'strap on your back' and fly away. Obviously being on
experimental and with a brand new airframe, maintenance costs are way

back

on that of a Maule. And for less money you own a new aircraft verses
something decades old.

The Maule pilot came back blown away by the capabilities of the Rebel,

his

statement was " That has got to be the best plane in New Zealand!" I, of
course, agreed!!!

These issues in regards to the 'Floatfix' and spring gear etc. just have

to

be worked through, the end result is a aircraft that you can have

complete

confidence in.

All issue I've dealt with regarding the Rebel have been when the the
aircraft comes in contact with the ground (and rough ground at that!),

and

as you say hanging heavier motors on the front, in the air, it's bullet
proof. Work through those problems and the road is clear ahead.

Stay positive !!

Alister
---------- first set

clamped

to a

No

amount would have lower for a set. the point. slap on

weight,

seat

but

I

think points

are

also

an

harmony things on they about

be

one

that

before

they spring

certainly

has combination

and

that

official

up

with,

the

cheaper supplied

require

absorb

the

the

the

aircraft,

there

is

The

up

the

visible

if

you block make

I

was

why

Hanging

by

two aircraft

this,

the

[/quote]close

to

top

sitting

is

can

slack

happening

[/quote]because

of

then

[/quote]away

from

for

a

[/quote]block

three

AN3

[/quote]works

[/quote]of

to do

have

sorted

[/quote]very

outer

on

but

bolt

is

left

[/quote]lower

rows

bolts,

up )

and

850-6

[/quote]very

rough

more

about

any

[/quote]and

it

stengthen

the

[/quote]strengthen

it.

[/quote]




[/quote]

[Mike Davis]

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From: Rebflyer@aol.com
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Date: Tue, 26 Jan 1999 21:08:43 EST
To: murphy-rebel@dcsol.com
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Subject: Re: Spring Gear fix ???
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Hi Jim,
Have you called MAM with your gear problem? Anytime I ran into
something
like that while building my Rebel they were more than helpful in fixing the
problem. Putting the thing together is difficult enough without having to
rebuild parts. Remember everyone give the factory a chance. I know that
some
of the reengineering seems to take longer than it should, but when it comes
to
simple part replacement due to incorrect manufacturing, they want to know.
Hmm, I do still wonder about their fiberglass parts though. Keep at it,
it's
worth it. Curt N97MR



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[Mike Davis]

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Thanks, I will.

jar

Rebflyer@aol.com wrote:

Hi Jim,
Have you called MAM with your gear problem? Anytime I ran into

something

like that while building my Rebel they were more than helpful in fixing

the

problem. Putting the thing together is difficult enough without having to
rebuild parts. Remember everyone give the factory a chance. I know that

some

of the reengineering seems to take longer than it should, but when it

comes to

simple part replacement due to incorrect manufacturing, they want to know.
Hmm, I do still wonder about their fiberglass parts though. Keep at it,

it's

worth it. Curt N97MR

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