The International Cessna^® 170 Association

OK - I am FINALLY getting closer to getting my skis installed. I am debating whether to install used hollow steel axles or new hollow steel axles. Main difference is cost! I know I can depend on you gurus to have an opinion (or 2) on this subject. I am leaning towards a new just because I have no way of knowing how much service life is left on a set of used. However, I can buy 3 sets of used for the price of 1 set of new. Hmmmm - which way to go

Thanks
Paul
N3458D

I'm not a ski flyer, but if any used steel parts pass a magnaflux check, and there's no rust pitting, dimensional checks ok, etc, (ie, all the checks normally done to determine airworthiness) that's the way I'd go. Have the used axles been yellow tagged by a reputable outfit since the last time they were used?

Miles

I just put a set of Airframes, Inc axles on my 170, and they sure are shiny. If I'd known there was a source of used hollow steel axles, I may have gone that route. Like Miles said, if they pass a magnaflux they'll prob last. Axles aren't very glamorous or exciting unless they break.

Don’t plan on using skis anytime soon down here but I was just curious as to witch axels were preferred the hollow steel or the solid aluminum?

The STC requires hollow steel axles. Also Miles, I am checking to see if the used axles I am looking for are yellow tagged or not.

Paul
N3458D

Bill Hart wrote:Don’t plan on using skis anytime soon down here but I was just curious as to witch axels were preferred the hollow steel or the solid aluminum?

Solid aluminum (known as ski axles by Cessna) are better than hollow aluminum. Hollow steel axles are better than either, as regards simple strength.