Air Systems
Main Gear
Before you begin, test the retract units for smooth op-
eration and ability to hold air with your hand pump.
Inspect the retract pockets and grind the blind nuts
flush with the former if they protrude into the pocket.
Use a grinding or cutoff disk in the Dremel for this
task.
Blind nuts may protrude into pocket. If so, grind them down with your
Dremel tool or large file.
Unlock the trunnion pin in the retract unit so the gear
may be operated by hand. Position the unit into the
pocket, trimming material as necessary to achieve an
easy fit. Note that you will need to rout a small slot for
the air line that exits the side of the retract unit, and
clear an access holes for the aft retract mounting
bolts.
Note access holes for bolts, slot for side air line to clear gear mount.
The struts should be installed such that the scissors
face forward. The trunnion bolts that snug the struts
to the retracts should also be facing forward for easier
access.
The 4 mm retract mounting bolts may not fit properly
and if they are tight or don't align easily, don't force
them. You do not want to strip or displace the blind
nuts. Instead, slightly enlarge holes in the aluminum
gear mounting plate. Work carefully and take your
time to insure a good fit without creating excessive
play.
When you are satisfied with the installation, add air
lines and snug the bolts down. Check the operation of
the gear with your hand pump. If there is any binding,
Construction Manual
Der Jet F9F-8 Cougar Page 16
