Tire Changes for Zenith Aircraft
Fixture with mounted rim Several Zenith aircraft have wheels with one-piece rims. Changing the tire of such a wheel is difficult, since t here is no easy way to clamp down the rim. We have that case for the 8 in. wheels of our Zenith 601HDS, where the rim has delicate cast spokes. This post describes a fixture that makes the task easy. It holds the wheel in place while we remove or install the tire with two spoons. Fixture for holding wheel Here are the steps for making the fixture. Platform Use 3/4 in. plywood. Make the piece large enough so that you can hold it down with your feet or knees. Three Support Blocks Cut three triangular support blocks shown in the above photo from a short 2x4 piece. Attach them to the platform from below with one drywall screw each. Glue a patch of rubber shelving material on top of each support block. The soft material assures that the blocks do not scratch the paint of the rim. Center Bolt and Spacers The center bolt has th