FBO to DA40 Towbar Adapter

[Tim H]

Has anyone made a set of bushings that could be used to adapt a “standard” FBO tow bar to fit a DA40? I have yet to find an FBO that has a towbar that fits the DA40. I end up pulling out all my baggage to get to my towbar or just end up leaving the towbar loose in the baggage area for quick access.

One FBO went through a whole box of assorted bushings but none fit.

I’m thinking a set of nylon bushings with a DA40 OD and a “standard” FBO towbar ID would work. Maybe add a flange on one end so the FBO towbar doesn’t damage the wheel pant. Does anyone know what the “standard” FBO towbar OD is?

(And where could I get a set made?)

[Gnomad]

When I picked up my plane, from Premiere, they gave me a set just like you are describing. They had a bunch of them pre-made, maybe they can sell you one?

flypas.com

Eric

p.s. I always have problems with the chalks, need small ones to fit under the wheel fairing.

[Rick]

You can buy a set from Aero Specialties for $55 (part number T-1500). I carry a set of these in my DA40, but so far I haven't needed to use them anywhere.

[Tim H]

Rick and Eric

THANKS!!

Tim

[Chris]

p.s. I always have problems with the chalks, need small ones to fit under the wheel fairing.

Carry around a set of these. They work great for us, are very compact, and less than $20 for a pair.

[Tim H]

Eric-

Do they work (well)?

Tim

[CFIDave]

After I bought a used Power Tow (the gasoline powered version) from a guy with a Bonanza, I needed to adapt the PowerTow to the DA40. So I bought their DA40 nylon adapters that insert into the nose wheel fairing: http://www.powertow.com/Nylon-Adaptor-D ... p_143.html.

Separately I also bought a set of round plastic inserts for use with the thinner tow bars and powered tugs that the local FBO uses to move aircraft around. Whenever I need maintenance I can insert these adapters into the DA40 nose gear fairing, give the FBO my hangar key, and then let them go retrieve the aircraft to perform oil changes, etc. (Yes, this requires a certain degree of trust!) The pair of plastic adapters are attached together with a shock cord (and a "Remove before flight" red tag) to keep them from falling out of the DA40 nose gear fairing. I wish I could remember where we bought them on the web...

[Gnomad]

Eric-

Do they work (well)?

Tim

I've only had to use them twice, so far, but they worked,

Eric

[Lucy]

I needed the nylon adapters to connect my old gasoline powered tug to my new-to-me 2008 DA40 XLS, but I couldn't find any initially ... so my son (he's a machinist) made a set for me after I sent him the measurements. He said he can make them for $36/pair if anyone else has the same need. All I added was the little eye screw and a short piece of bungee cord to keep them connected.

The photo is the adapter after I inserted it to confirm the fit (1.5" OD).

He can be reached at: oliver@mountainairmachining.com

[Lou]

I turned a couple out of HDPE on my lathe. I am on to my second set since the first got lost. They go from Mooney 1.125” inside to Diamond 1.5” OD.