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SE-1070-6 – Textron Aviation OEM Shimmy Damper
Available now through the AirParts Aero marketplace.
Overview Section
The SE-1070-6 is a genuine Textron Aviation OEM hydraulic shimmy damper specifically engineered for the nose landing gear of the Cessna 208/208B Caravan series. This critical component is designed to suppress high-frequency oscillations (commonly known as "shimmy") of the nose wheel during takeoff, landing, and high-speed taxi operations.
The Cessna Caravan, as a robust utility turboprop, often operates from unimproved or rough runways. The SE-1070-6 acts as a hydraulic shock absorber for the steering system, utilizing a piston and metered orifices to provide resistance against rapid side-to-side movements while allowing for smooth, low-speed steering inputs from the pilot.
Key Features Section
Hydraulic Metering Technology: Features a precision-machined internal piston that forces hydraulic fluid through calibrated orifices, providing consistent damping across a wide temperature range.
Heavy-Duty Construction: Built with high-strength aluminum and steel components to withstand the rigorous vibrations and environmental stresses associated with bush and regional airline operations.
Aviation-Grade Seals: Equipped with specialized internal seals designed for compatibility with MIL-PRF-5606 or MIL-PRF-83282 hydraulic fluids, ensuring leak-free performance.
Extended Service Life: Engineered to meet Textron’s stringent durability standards for high-utilization aircraft, reducing the frequency of maintenance-induced downtime.
OEM Fitment: As a factory-certified part, it ensures perfect alignment with the nose gear torque links and steering collar without the need for field modifications.
Technical Specifications Section
| Specification | Detail |
| Part Number | SE-1070-6 |
| Manufacturer | Textron Aviation (Cessna) |
| Aircraft Model | Cessna 208 / 208B Caravan |
| Fluid Type | MIL-PRF-5606 / MIL-PRF-83282 |
| Component Type | Hydraulic Piston Damper |
| Mounting | Nose Gear Torque Link / Steering Collar |
| Certification | FAA-PMA / OEM |
Aircraft Compatibility Section
The SE-1070-6 is the primary damping unit for the Cessna 208 family:
Cessna 208 Caravan: The standard utility configuration.
Cessna 208B Grand Caravan / EX: The stretched, higher-capacity models.
Cessna 208 Cargo Master: Dedicated freight variants.
Technical Applications & Safety
A malfunctioning shimmy damper is more than a nuisance; it is a safety hazard. If the damper loses hydraulic fluid or internal pressure, the nose wheel can oscillate violently.
Safety Warning: Maintenance and Inspection.
During every pre-flight and scheduled inspection, the SE-1070-6 should be checked for "wetness" around the piston shaft. Even a minor hydraulic leak can lead to a total loss of damping effectiveness.
Signs of Failure: If the pilot reports a "vibration in the rudder pedals" during the landing roll or if the nose wheel appears to "flutter" during taxi, the damper may be bypassed or low on fluid. Never operate the aircraft with a known shimmy issue, as the resulting forces can lead to structural failure of the nose gear fork, torque links, or steering pushrods.
Installation & Maintenance Addendum
Bleeding the System: Following installation, ensure the damper is properly serviced and "bled" of air. Air trapped in the cylinder will compress, resulting in "spongy" damping and potential shimmy.
Bushing Inspection: When replacing the SE-1070-6, inspect the mounting bolts and bushings. Even a new damper cannot compensate for "slop" or play in worn mounting hardware.
Shaft Care: Keep the exposed portion of the piston shaft clean and free of grit. A dirty shaft can score the internal seals as it retracts, leading to premature hydraulic failure.
