F6F HMS Emperor 800 squadron
The landing gear of the Grumman F6F Hellcat was a critical feature that contributed significantly to its success as a carrier-based fighter. Designed for the demanding conditions of carrier operations, the Hellcat’s landing gear system was built for durability and reliability, capable of handling the rough, abrupt landings required on short carrier decks.
Main Landing Gear Design
The Hellcat’s main landing gear was integrated into the center section of the wing, which enhanced its structural strength. It featured Goodyear 32 by 8-inch wheels and tires, equipped with hydraulic disc brakes.
The gear system itself was complex and included:
- Hydraulic retracting cylinders
- Torque shafts (fore and aft actuating)
- Bellcranks, bevel gears, and cams
- Retracting links and torque lock pins
- Position transmitters and indicators
- Fairings to streamline the underwing surface when the gear was retracted.
The pneumatic struts, which supported the wheels and brakes, absorbed the shock of landings. Any remaining impact was transferred directly to the airframe structure, demonstrating the robust nature of the Hellcat’s design. The system was rigorously tested through straight drop tests, proving its ability to withstand heavy impacts and continue performing under extreme conditions.
Gear Malfunctions and Improvements
- Early in the Hellcat’s service, there were some landing gear malfunctions, particularly during hard landings. The gear’s design allowed the wheels and struts to rotate 90 degrees to sit flat inside the wing when retracted. However, in some cases, the wheels rotated 90 degrees in the opposite direction while still down and locked, leading to skidding landings as the tires were pulled sideways.
- These early issues were resolved, and the Hellcat’s gear became known for its durability and reliability in combat and training scenarios.
Tail Wheel Assembly
- The tail wheel assembly was mounted to the aircraft’s aft fuselage, reinforced by bulkhead 212. This assembly included a caster and drag link, which could be raised by a hydraulic actuator connected to a shock strut.
- The tail wheel was designed to retract into the fuselage, with a fairing covering the opening to maintain aerodynamic smoothness. For carrier operations, a solid rubber tire was used, while a smaller pneumatic “doughnut” tire was fitted for land-based operations.
- The tail wheel could either be left to caster freely or locked in the trailing position via a cockpit lever, improving control during landings.
Emergency Pneumatic System
- In the event of hydraulic system failure, often caused by combat damage, the Hellcat featured an emergency pneumatic system to deploy the landing gear.
- By pulling a T-handle located on the lower center of the instrument panel, pilots could activate a 1,950-psi air bottle, which was attached to the rear cockpit bulkhead. This high-pressure air would “blow down” the main gear and tail wheel, ensuring they locked into place for landing.
The Hellcat’s rugged and well-engineered landing gear played a crucial role in its reputation as one of the most reliable carrier aircraft of World War II, capable of withstanding harsh carrier landings and battle damage while continuing to perform effectively in combat.