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AA1N4 – Air Trac 8.50-10 x 6-Ply Ribbed Aircraft Tire
Available now for order through the Aircraft Tires and Landing Gear Marketplace.
Overview Section
The Air Trac AA1N4 is a high-quality, general aviation tire designed specifically for utility on soft surfaces and paved runways alike. Known for its "ribbed" tread design, the AA1N4 is a specialty tire that excels in bush flying, flight training, and agricultural applications.
The 8.50-10 sizing indicates a specialized fitment for larger hubs, providing a significant footprint that aids in flotation on unpaved or "soft" strips. With a 6-ply rating, this tire offers an optimal balance between weight savings and the structural durability required for the high-impact cycles of student training and rugged backcountry landings.
Key Features Section
Ribbed Tread Design: Features longitudinal grooves that provide excellent directional stability during taxi and takeoff, while effectively channeling water to prevent hydroplaning on wet runways.
6-Ply Rating: Provides the necessary carcass strength for high-performance singles and light twins while maintaining enough flexibility to absorb shock on uneven terrain.
High-Flotation Footprint: The wide 8.50 cross-section distributes aircraft weight over a larger surface area, preventing "sinking" on grass, gravel, or soft-dirt airfields.
Specialty Rubber Compound: Engineered for low-wear characteristics on asphalt and high resistance to "sun-checking" and ozone degradation during outdoor storage.
Nylon Cord Carcass: Utilizes high-tenacity nylon cords to provide superior impact resistance and fatigue life.
Tube-Type Design: Designed for use with a high-quality inner tube, ensuring reliable pressure retention and ease of field maintenance.
Technical Specifications Section
Part Number: AA1N4
Brand: Air Trac (Specialty Tires of America)
Size: 8.50-10
Ply Rating: 6-Ply
Tread Style: Ribbed
Type: Tube-Type (Requires inner tube)
Rated Load: Approximately 2,600 lbs (Verify with latest load/inflation table)
Rated Speed: 120 MPH
Average Weight: 15.2 lbs
Outside Diameter: 21.6 inches (Nominal)
Width: 8.5 inches (Nominal)
Aircraft Compatibility Section
Cessna Series: Frequently used on Cessna 180, 182, and 185 "Skywagon" models for improved backcountry performance.
Piper Aircraft: Fits various Piper PA-25 Pawnee and PA-36 Brave agricultural aircraft.
De Havilland: Common on DHC-2 Beaver aircraft configured for wheeled operations.
Experimental/Bush Planes: A popular choice for heavy-duty experimental builds and "STOL" (Short Takeoff and Landing) modifications.
Note: The AA1N4 is a specialized oversized tire. Installation on certified aircraft may require a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) if it differs from the original equipment manufacturer's (OEM) tire size listed in the Type Certificate Data Sheet (TCDS).
Applications Section
Backcountry Flying: Providing the flotation needed to land on riverbeds, grass fields, and remote forest strips.
Agricultural Operations: Supporting the heavy loads of crop-dusting aircraft on prepared and unprepared surfaces.
Flight Training: Offering a durable, predictable tire for students practicing crosswind landings and taxiing.
Why Choose the Air Trac AA1N4?
The AA1N4 is the industry standard for versatile utility. While many aircraft tires are designed strictly for paved surfaces, the Air Trac line is uniquely balanced for the pilot who splits their time between the hangar and the bush. Choosing the AA1N4 ensures you have the directional "bite" provided by the ribbed tread for runway operations, combined with the large air volume and footprint required to protect your landing gear from the shocks of off-airport landings. Unlike "smooth" tundra tires, the ribbed AA1N4 provides superior braking traction and wear life on hard surfaces.
The performance of the AA1N4 is highly dependent on Inflation Pressure Management. Because of its high-flotation design, maintaining the correct PSI is critical for achieving the intended footprint. Under-inflation can lead to "creeping" on the wheel rim (which can shear the inner tube valve) and excessive sidewall heat. Over-inflation reduces the flotation benefits, leading to a "harsh" ride and increased wear on the center rib. The 6-ply nylon construction is specifically engineered to handle the "sidewall flex" associated with lower-pressure operations on soft ground, making it a favorite for STOL pilots worldwide.
Note: The AA1N4 is a tube-type tire. It must be installed with a new 8.50-10 inner tube. During installation, ensure the "Red Dot" (the light spot of the tire) is aligned with the inner tube valve stem to ensure proper wheel balance. Always refer to the aircraft manufacturer's maintenance manual for specific torque values on wheel through-bolts.
Documentation
Specialty Tires of America Aircraft Selection Guide: Contains full load/inflation charts for the Air Trac line.
FAA AC 20-97B: Guidance on the proper maintenance and storage of aircraft tires.
