Alaskan Bushwheels

I swapped the Goodyear 26's for ABW 29's.

These have made quite a change. First is the much higher body angle that seems to change the whole look of the aircraft. My main reason for getting them was to reduce stress on the airframe. I probably won't operate into rougher airstrips, but it will make it easier for the ones that I already operate into.

Taxying

Definitely a softer ride, but with less forward visibility. Given that I already couldn't see over the nose it's not a huge change.

Takeoff

Due to the higher angle of attack, the tail comes off the ground earlier, and with less forward stick. This is very good for operating on rough airstrips, and for increased forward visibility. It's increased the prop clearance by a couple of inches too.

Landing

The biggest change is to the touchdown. It's akin to doubling the suspension and results in a plushness that I found hard to believe. For the first few flights I had 11 psi, but I'll lower that to 8 psi.

The tailwheel is easier to keep off the ground for longer too. I did notice a slight "grab" on each landing, as if I had hit a puddle of water, but not bad and only momentarily.

I also noticed it was slightly easier to touch with the main wheels first. This is somewhat anecdotal and largely affected by approach speed.