Hard testing of my tailwheel found the weakness. The nicely bent tubing yoke started to deform under severe loads. It didn't fail, but you can see the deformation right in the middle of the bend. So I made a new style caster frame with no bent tubing. It's not as elegant as the prior version, but it survived the same test that killed the other one. A fat guy jumping on it like a pogo stick!
It's a repurposed deck chair http://www.cabelas.com/product/CABELAS-PADDED-LOUNGER-XL/1748326.utsThe bottom section of frame was damaged a couple of years ago by alcohol and poor judgement. Its been sitting in storage since then. With all the grommets on the side you can adjust to whatever length needed. I've got a bit of yoga mat that I was going to slip in there for extra padding. I think that crossbar that forms the normal seat bottom in the airframe will grow teeth after sitting in it awhile...hopefully the padding will alleviate some of that.Not sure on what it weighs. I'm estimating ~3- 4 lbs when its laced up with the yoga mat pad inside the bottom. Not incredibly svelte, but lighter than the 6 lb Black Max seat I was looking at....cheaper too.
I got started on the bungee struts yesterday. Got one strut end made before the drill press broke 😕
Nice airplane parts...
Looking great Dave,I feel your pain on the gear, I rebuilt mine with an extra 2" in height.