Removing the Floats from your Stinson.

Obviously it is not necessary to remove the wings to perform a simple change-over from float to wheel gear, but remember if the wings are on and you hoist from the engine mount special consideration will have to be given to the overall weight of the tail. At some point you'll have to lower the tail.

I use a tripod with a come-along wench attached to the tail spring. I've used various methods to hoist the aircraft into the air but have found the cherry picker the simplest and least likely to swing once suspended. I placed several 4x4's across the lower legs of the hoist to support the aircraft in the event of a sudden loss of hydraulic pressure. If the wings are on, tie a couple of ropes to the struts to prevent swinging when the gear is removed. Don't forget to loosen the ropes if you have to lift the aircraft any higher.

Before lifting the plane have the cockpit interior and wheel gear ready for installation. Front seats and all covers/floor-boards under them should be removed. Only lift the aircraft enough to take all the weight off the ground. This will make it a lot easier to remove the float-strut bolts, and the floats will not fall when removed. Detach the water rudder control cables and the front and rear cross wires from the aircraft then remove the 6 upper strut bolts. If you loosen the lower strut ball joints you'll be able to swing the struts away from the fuselage and prevent scratching or poking a hole in your beautiful Stinson. It will take two people to drag the 303 lb. floats out from under the craft.

You may want to lower the aircraft a foot or two before installing the main gear... another two man job. Don't go under the aircraft until you get the mains on!

Mains installed and aircraft safely on the ground. Be aware that the aircraft is nose heavy with the wings removed and the tail high. It may pitch down once the mains are placed on the ground unless the tail is lowered first.

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Copyright © 2003 David P. Miller
Last modified: March 23, 2004