Acme Aero announces STC for Black Ops shocks and stinger tailwheel

Acme Aero announced the supplemental type certificate for the Black Ops Shocks and Stinger tailwheel for the PA-12, PA-14, PA-18, J-3, PA-11 and CC-18.

The Black Ops shocks ad stinger tailwheel have been designed for lightweight, backcountry and short takeoff and landing (STOL) aircraft to dampen landing energy through shock absorbers instead of transferring energy to the airframe.

“We have created the most advanced technology for the most iconic airplanes,” Acme Aero CEO Matt McSwain. “Over several years of advanced testing and over 2,000 sets flying in the experimental world, both systems have proved themselves in multiple mission profiles.”

The newly certified shocks can significantly improve performance and safety while improving strength and reliability.

“We have pushed every single customer to the Black Ops and Stinger tailwheel,” CubCrafters dealer Mike Sasser said. “The product makes the airplane considerably safer. It eliminates rebound which really helps with ground loop situations, especially with low-time pilots.”

There are redundancies in both systems to safeguard against any type of failure on any type of terrain. The shocks feature a threaded and welded top-out plate and a lock nut for the piston valve stack to protect against any mechanical failures. The BlackOps also feature a triple seal pack for longevity and leak-free performances.

The Stinger tailwheel also features a smaller version of the BlackOps shock, which provides all of the same safety and performance benefits. With the use of a 7075 mount and 6061 A-Arm, the Stinger allows numerous rate, caster and camber and ride height adjustments. The Black Ops shocks retail for $4,800 and the Stinger tailwheel retails for $2,300.