Larry Kraus wrote:
Speaking of studded tires for airplanes,TBM,Inc. got a batch of ice tires and used them on a couple of their TBM's for a little while in the mid 1960's.They were nasty things that when brand new looked like they were working their way through the last cord.They had sharp wires that were about like razor blades imbedded in the tread.The mechanics hated them because they would slice through their gloves when changing the tires.I was loading the tankers with retardant in those days and remember sitting on one of those tires while waiting to load a TBM.I can guarantee that I got up a lot faster than I sat down.The Forest Service maintenance inspector finally ordered TBM to remove the tires because he wouldn't believe that they were new tires and not worn out throw aways.It's always nice to have qualified people making maintenance decisions.
Very interesing story Larry.... and Jack.... coolest photos, as always. Thanks for posting. Do you know any more about the story behind them?
Cheers,
Richard
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Richard Mallory Allnutt - Photography -
http://www.rmallnutt.com