The original Flitzer design does not
include a wheel braking system but it was reported by Flitzer pilots that
it was becoming increasingly difficult to operate safely on hard surfaces
and in today’s airfield environment with out means of stopping easily. Ian Wasey set about designing a bespoke
drum brake system specifically for the Flitzer that was light yet robust
and importantly, maintained or even enhanced the vintage appearance of the
aeroplane.
The result is this brilliant design with
a back-plate machined from a solid billet of aluminium and a lightened
steel drums laced integrally into the spoked wheels. The brake shoes are Honda C90 type so
replacements can always be sourced cheaply and easily. The system has a clever yet simple torque
link to prevent the axle from rotating when the brakes are applied. The brakes are actuated independently via
bespoke heel brake levers bolted to the rear side off each rudder
pedal. The brakes are cable operated
to keep the system light, simple and to minimise maintenance.
At the 2006 PFA rally at Kemble, Ian
Wasey’s brake design was awarded the Coates Swalesong Trophy for the best
design element. All the pilots who
have now installed the brake system to their Flitzer have reported a
transformation of handling when on the landing roll-out and taxing, vastly
increasing safety. A pre-flight full
power run up is now possible without the need for chocks.
The brake kit is supplied with all the
components necessary to complete the installation including all hardware,
cables and the drums are already spoked into a pair or stove-enamelled
wheels. A full set of CAD
engineering drawings are also available if you would like to machine your
own ‘Wasey Brakes’
system to their Flitzer have reported a
transformation of handling when on the landing roll-out and taxing, vastly
increasing safety. A pre-flight full
power run up is now possible without the need for chocks.
The brake kit is supplied with all the
components necessary to complete the installation including all hardware,
cables and the drums are already spoked into a pair or stove-enamelled
wheels. A full set of CAD
engineering drawings are also available if you would like to machine your
own ‘Wasey Brakes’
