The Cessna 120-140 Association Forum

Is there a recommended method of tying down the tail wheel? The ops manual wasn't clear. Is there an option to put a ring back there or do you wrap the rope sort of around the tail wheel? I've seen some pics online where a ring was installed through the top of the tail wheel bracket. Seemed like maybe a bad idea since those are already prone to cracking or is that the right answer?

Thanks

I have also seen a ring attached to the bolt that holds the tail wheel on. I would just wrap and tie with rope. There are devices to secure the rudder easily made from two pieces of plywood with some carpet as a cushion. There are also slide in devices that lock the ailerons and the flaps. If equipped, a couple of notches of flap down is also good unless they are secured otherwise. There are control locks that fit on the yoke and rudder pedals. These devices are OK, but if the control surfaces are subject to a lot of wind, the cables are still being stressed. Best to lock from the outside rather than the inside.

The 'ring' tie down is a Cessna PN 0642105, go over to the Intl Cessna 170 Association website and search that for plenty of info pros and cons. Was popular on the L19 Bird Dogs...

http://www.cessna170.org/forums/viewforum.php?f=24

No need to add more weight...just throw a clove hitch around that tail spring