Rotating pneumatic retractable landing gear Robart 148 for Corsair 1/5

Robart 148 Rotating Pneumatic Retract for Large RC Airplane

The Robart 148 retractable landing gear is a set of 90° rotating pneumatic main gear, specially designed for large radio-controlled airplanes and Giant Scale warbirds. It is specifically intended for the 1/5 scale Top Flite Giant Corsair, for models weighing approximately 9 to 18 kg. Its design replicates the characteristic movement of the Corsair's main gear: the legs pivot during retraction to position the wheels in the designated wing bays. The pneumatic mechanism ensures the retraction and extension of the gear, with positive locking in both the up and down positions.

Pneumatic Rotating Gear for Large Scale RC Corsair

The Robart 148 reference was developed to meet the requirements of Giant Scale models. It is particularly suitable for F4U Corsair RC builds, but may also be of interest to hobbyists looking for a robust rotating gear mechanism with similar features. The system is designed for 4.5-inch wheels, approximately 114 mm in diameter. The legs are equipped with functional dummy shock absorbers (oleo struts), which help absorb stresses during taxiing and landings. The gear also features self-centering steering, a characteristic well-suited for a large radio-controlled model.

Robust Construction for 9 to 18 kg RC Model

The Robart 148 combines elements of aeronautical steel and aluminum, with a pre-primed gray aluminum finish. The assembly is designed to withstand the significant forces generated by a large model during taxi, takeoff, and landing. Each pair of gear weighs approximately 28.4 oz, or about 805 g. The legs measure around 7-1/8 inches (181 mm) and use diameters of 7/16 or 1/2 inch depending on the configuration. The mechanism measures approximately 121 × 68 × 57 mm. Its mounting plate measures about 67 × 102 mm, with mounting hole spacing allowing integration into the model's intended structure.

Installation of Robart 148 Retractable Gear

The Robart 148 operates with a pneumatic system. For its use, a pneumatic control system, an air reservoir, and a filling pump with a pressure gauge are required. Robart typically recommends an operating pressure of around 80 to 110 psi, or about 5.5 to 7.6 bar, depending on the setup. The kit includes the two main pneumatic mechanisms, mounting elements, and axles needed for wheel installation.

Robart 148 Features

Main rotating pneumatic retractable gear Robart 148 Reference Rotation: 90° Set of 2 main gears Intended for large RC airplanes and Giant Scale warbirds Application includes: Top Flite Giant Corsair 1/5 Models weighing approximately 9 to 18 kg Wheels: 4.5 inches / approximately 114 mm Legs with functional oleos Self-centering steering Positive locking in retracted and extended positions Construction in aeronautical steel and aluminum Pair weight: approximately 805 g Legs about 181 mm Pneumatic operation Recommended operating pressure: 80 to 110 psi