1977 Turbo Arrow III Front Tire
Hello all,
I'm in need of a new front tire.
The chart states 5.00-5 type III 4 ply.
The tire on the plane is an Air Hawk 5.00-5 type III 6 ply. Not sure if the 6 ply was a mistake or is acceptable and a better option.
Thanks for any help.
Todd S.
Comments
Todd,
Some say the 6 ply has different dimensions but not according to goodyear. I am hoping to learn on this question too
Eric Panning
1981 Seneca III
Hillsboro, OR (KHIO)
The current 6 ply was likely what was available at the time of previous tire replacement and an acceptable substitution. Disclaimer though: I am not an A&P, so verify with an expert.
Just took a dive into the topic and looks like it confirms that aviation tires (excluding those in the Bush-use category) are the same in terms of their automotive counterparts when it comes to the numbering and ply schemas.
Here is my source: https://www.goodyearaviation.com/resources/pdf/Data-Section-2022.pdf
The size of the tire is determined by the sidewall numbers. In this case 5.00-5 gives us the following dimensions while inflated (independent of the ply):
- Max / Min Outside Diameter: 14.2" / 13.65"
- Max / Min Section Width (ie: tread): 4.95" / 4.65"
The loading of the tire is per the ply which is both for internal pressure and weight loading. I did learn something that apparently Goodyear has different speed ratings based on the tread design, but overall the core difference in the ply ratings remains that the 6 ply is able to withstand higher internal pressure (50 psi) versus the 4 ply (31 psi) and the 6 ply is also rated for higher loads versus the 4 ply.
Pulling this full circle, unless a better expert is has better insight, the only difference between the two tires in question is stiffness in the tires and possibly price. But if the stiffer tire is the only one available, and you are AOG, the decision makes itself.
For a follow-on consideration, if the mains are the same age as the nose, my vote is to replace all (including the tubes). Put another way, when one goes from age (and not injury), the others are soon to follow. Also, while I did not dig into the age topic, will not surprise me if Air Hawk lists an age range independent of use. If so, disregard at risk.
Great information. The tires on the mains are in great shape. I went through the logs and the mains were replaced 2021. They are Goodyear 6 ply. The nose wheel tire was replaced in 2007!
Photos of the nose gear tire are below.
Nose Gear Tire
Replace, why are you waiting, lucky so far. Carl
48 yrs A/P IA DAL aircraft inspector. 172N
Carl,
It has only been 17 years and the dry rot improves traction as well as wet/winter performance. ;)
Todd, I would say any tire 4 or 6 ply would be better vs current. I would also highly recommend replacing the tube. Your landing technique must be excellent as the flex/compression is many inches on a hard landing + it accelerates almost instantly to landing speed on every landing. Dry rot tires are at risk for a catastrophic failure differently than just a flat tire. They can come apart all at once and could cause a loss of control.
Eric
Eric Panning
1981 Seneca III
Hillsboro, OR (KHIO)
The plane is absolutely grounded until I replace the tire and tube. My question was regarding the 4 ply vs 6 ply. I wasn't sure why they put a 6 ply on before, when the chart states 4 ply.
Thanks,
Todd
Eric I have to find a old junk set up here and try them in St Paul this winter. Lol Carl
48 yrs A/P IA DAL aircraft inspector. 172N
Six plys tires used on Cherokee 6s not uncommon to put a six-ply in place of a four. Little overkill especially as far as price goes so four ply is more than enough for your arrow. Which would be the normal tire size anyway.
If I was operating off of non paved runway I'd use a six ply anyway. Carl
48 yrs A/P IA DAL aircraft inspector. 172N
Thanks for the help all