Warbird Information Exchange

During the annual I'm performing on a T-6G I found the Universal Joint added to the fwd selector rod had failed. One of the pins in the U-joint had cracked and was coming out. The shiny, polished bare steel of the pin was visible sticking out further than normal. No shiny, polished area of either pin in the U-joint should be seen.
Part is locater forward of the hyd pressure engagement linkage which is a part of the -G model T-6 and the Mk IV Harvard. All the "Normal" T-6 and SNJ types with the Power Push lever lack this type of fuel selector linkage and this AN270-B8 U-joint. Replacement is a MS20270-B8 at more than $100. The MS20271-B8 is dimensionally the same but much stronger and around $130.
Check all the U-joints at each annual or when you remove the L/H side fus panel as if they let go, particularly the front linkage with no passenger, you can't change to another fuel tank position.

Thanks for the heads up, when we get there in my annual, we'll take a good look at it.

Good find Rich!

I am guessing those that have had the linkages taken apart to demate the fuselage from wing center section will really want to check this...

Enemy Ace wrote:I am guessing those that have had the linkages taken apart to demate the fuselage from wing center section will really want to check this...

To remove the fus from the wing there is a end on the linkage that is designed to engage the fuel elector. It only fits one way and easily slips apart. The connection is pretty much the same on all fuel selectors of that time period whether P-51 or T-6, ect. That way the orientation of the handle in the cockpit will stay the same as the selector, R/H tank can't become the off position.