RAPTOR SUSPENSION RUBBERS

[ClearlyAfrica1]

Hi all,

Wanted to share a few pics and info of my Raptor's suspension rubbers, probably the originals since new, their deterioration and replacement.
I noticed on pre-flight that there were two longitudinal cracks in the rubbers so decided to order new ones and replace. I left the trike for a couple of months due to work commitments, received the new rubbers from Manfred and decided to fit when I next was going to fly.
Pulled the trike out, decided to go for a flight and did my normal pre-flight where I discovered that one side of the trike suspension had completely collapsed...see pics. No flying obviously, and set to work with my AP in attendance in replacing the rubbers which was a relatively easy job.
Raptor owners beware...this could be what the rubber looks like on the inside! If you haven't replaced them according to the recommendations, I opine you do so at earliest convenience...they're relatively inexpensive and the job is

[ClearlyAfrica1]

Pic 2

[ClearlyAfrica1]

Pic 3

[ClearlyAfrica1]

Pic 4

[Dunesand]

Common problem with these Raptor rubbers.
Me and 4 other Raptor owners had endless problems with these rubbers. New ones didn't even last 6 months.
We found a rubber composite manufacturer who made replacement units to size.
I also believe these can be upgraded to steel coil spring units by Jenya?? - still have to get more info.

[AWACS]

Guys, I upgraded mine to specially made coil springs...fantastic cost effective solution..much better suspension now.
Talk to Jenya....it really works.