Lower Drag Link replacement kit

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John Barrett
Posts: 3
Joined: Sat Oct 12, 2024 8:30 pm

I have the bronze bushing upgrade for this part and now am aware there is a revision to the service bulletin indicating the bronze bushings are not sufficient to resist wear and deformation that could lead to a nose gear collapse. My current links seem to be in good shape and the overcenter feature fits the guidelines, but I'd like to upgrade the newer kit that came out in 2022 I think. Looking on Lancair.com parts available, the kit is listed as sold out. Does anyone have knowledge of a source or recommendation how to obtain the latest updgraded parts?

Thanks,
John
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John,

Bob Pastusek has an article on the LOBO website under the maintenance section discussing the bushing and options.

Ordering parts from Lancair is not an option right now and I’d not expect them to be an option for a while.

I think Bob makes the upgraded bushings. I’ll have him reply to this thread.
Robert Pastusek
Posts: 14
Joined: Tue Nov 22, 2022 6:48 pm

John,
I'm pretty sure I've sent the referenced article to you before, but in any case, I'm sending it directly...can't attach it to this post for some reason... I also thought we upgraded your bronze bushings to stainless steel a couple of years ago after your nose gear collapse during ground towing?
If you still have bronze bushings installed in the overcenter linkage of your IV-P, they need to be replaced ASAP. LOBO provides, free of charge, form/fit/function replacements for the 2 bronze bushings made from stainless steel, which are better-capable of withstanding the significant impact loads during touchdown of the nose wheel. These have worked well for many Lancair owners, but LOBO makes no warranty as to their applicability or use...install and use at your own risk.
A second possible option--probably the one you are asking about: Lancair Uvalde (Conrad Huffstutler) designed and produced a set (2 parts) of improved lower drag links that correct a design deficiency in the original parts. He sold these for approximately $1,000/set when the Huffstutlers owned the company, but ceased doing so last year. I am advised that Kim Lorentzen is working to re-establish production and delivery of the Huffstutler drag links. She is temporarily out of commission for a few weeks now, but you might contact her about getting on the list for a set. Write to her at KimL@evolutionaircraft.com, and please give her a few days to respond.
Bob Pastusek
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