Taildraggers are unique vehicles that boast a pronounced design and a distinct way of operation that separates them from tricycle gear aircraft.
Characteristics and Operation
A taildragger is a car built from 1935 till 1948 with distinctive and full “separate” front and rear fenders. Cars that can take off and land on airfields are called amphibious aircraft. Taildraggers steer from behind their center of gravity which on the ground can be counter-intuitive. The taildragger design keeps weight low and propellers off the ground. Gliders and motor gliders use taildragger gears to operate from grass strips.
Landing a taildragger uses a full stall or three point technique with the aircraft fully stalled, main tires and tailwheel touching together. Two rules when landing are to keep the stick back and keep it straight. The aircraft must touch down perfectly straight with no drift or crab. Bouncing occurs when the angle of attack varies on touchdown.
Taildragger aircraft allow more off-pavement options and can be directionally unstable since the mass is behind the main gear, causing swapping ends, a natural physics occurrence. However, if the tailwheel is straight at the start of the taxi, it will track straight.
Advantages and Style
The Taildragger Advantage
Taildragger customization remains an option to create a period look. Negative camber with the wheel tops angled in can greatly improve handling when done carefully.
Tricycle gear aircraft are easier for first-time pilots since it’s easier to steer from the front and it’s less likely to nose over if brakes are applied hard. However, the advantages of a taildragger include the ability to support otherwise heavy airplanes thanks to the rear placement of their secondary wheel, and they are typically easier to handle than those with tricycle landing gear.
Customization and Trends
The tailored style of lowering the rear was popular in the 1940s, but styles changed in the ’50s and ’60s as cars grew bigger. However, taildragger customization remains an option to create a period look. Negative camber with the wheel tops angled in can greatly improve handling when done carefully.