Diehl main gear legs for conventional and tri-gear configurations are NOT interchangeable. For the tri-gear you must use the tri-gear version. I have wasted a lot of time and money getting this interchangeable issue figured out. The metal castings that mount to the spar are interchangeable. Most likely you may be able to use some of the same original holes that were drilled in the spars. Those holes that you don't use, should be plugged with wooden dowel rods epoxied in place. Plugging the old holes helps restore structural integrity to the lumber and keeps moisture out. Coat the new holes with epoxy to keep out moisture also. I used pipe cleaners as a brush. You can make your own gear legs: Buy the blanks for a Grumman Cheetah from http://www.fletchair.com/catalog/section32.html Call them at 800 FA-WINGS (329-4647). The blanks are not listed in their catalog. The blanks are 1" thick; you will need to plane these down to 3/4" and then cut out the leg. I paid $34 for a pair plus shipping for mine. Don't have access to a bench planner; don't know the leg pattern? Then buy the legs from NV Aero http://www.nvaero.com/diehl-main-gear-legs-only/ Read the fine print at the NV Aero website on interchangeability.
Sid Wood Tri-gear KR-2 N6242 Mechanicsville, MD, USA ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ > >>1. Can this be done if I have a kit that is nearly complete and has TG >mains already installed? If so, how? >+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Complexity and cost will depend on the type of main gear already installed. If it is the Diehl main gear setup then you simply shift the main gear to the back side of the main spar and add the nose gear setup. If it is not the Diehl main gear setup then you may have to opt for the entire tri gear package. More info needed. Converting to tri gear is absolutely possible without airframe changes, it's just a matter of complexity and cost. Larry Flesner
