35-820123 – Textron Aviation OEM Bushing (Nose Gear Shock Absorber)
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The Textron Aviation 35-820123 is an OEM-certified high-precision bushing designed for the nose gear shock absorber (oleo strut) assembly of the Beechcraft Bonanza and Baron series. This critical mechanical component acts as a bearing surface between the reciprocating piston (inner strut) and the shock absorber housing (outer cylinder). Engineered to withstand the intense radial loads and friction generated during taxiing, takeoff, and landing, the 35-820123 ensures the smooth, linear travel of the nose gear suspension system.
Fabricated from a specialized aerospace-grade bronze alloy or a composite-lined material (depending on the specific revision), this bushing is designed to be the "sacrificial" wear surface. By providing a low-friction interface, it protects the expensive strut housings from metal-on-metal contact, which can cause galling and hydraulic seal failure. For the maintenance professional, replacing the 35-820123 during a nose gear "re-seal" or overhaul is essential for eliminating "nose gear shimmy" and maintaining precise steering geometry.
Key Features
Precision Machined Tolerances: Engineered to maintain the exact "air-gap" required for the hydraulic fluid and nitrogen charge to operate without bypass leakage.
High-Load Bearing Capacity: Designed to absorb the impact of nose-wheel touchdown without deforming or cracking.
Anti-Galling Composition: Utilizes materials that are naturally resistant to "stick-slip" friction, ensuring the suspension remains responsive to small runway irregularities.
Corrosion Resistance: Treated to withstand exposure to hydraulic fluids (MIL-PRF-5606), de-icing chemicals, and runway salt.
OEM Reliability: Guarantees a perfect press-fit into the Beechcraft shock absorber housing, preventing the "unseating" issues often found with non-certified bushings.
Technical Specifications
Part Number: 35-820123
Manufacturer: Textron Aviation (Beechcraft)
Component Type: Shock Absorber Bushing (Nose Gear)
Material: Aerospace Bronze or Reinforced Composite
Application: Nose Gear Shock Strut (Oleo)
Governing Specifications: Beechcraft Engineering Standard 35-series
Certification: FAA-PMA / Textron OEM Original Equipment
Aircraft Compatibility
Beechcraft Bonanza Series: 33, 35, and 36 models.
Beechcraft Baron Series: 55 and 58 models.
Note: This bushing is a staple for the "classic" Beechcraft retractable gear fleet. Always verify the specific station and strut part number in the Illustrated Parts Catalog (IPC) Section 32.
Applications
Nose Gear Overhaul: Mandatory replacement part when the shock absorber is disassembled for chrome plating or cylinder honing.
Shimmy Troubleshooting: Replaced when excessive lateral "play" is detected in the nose gear strut, which is a primary cause of high-speed vibration during takeoff.
Preventative Maintenance: Installed during major "Phase" inspections to restore factory-spec suspension feel and steering response.
Why Choose 35-820123?
In a retractable landing gear system, the Nose Gear Strut is subject to complex bending moments. If the internal bushings—like the 35-820123—are worn, the strut can "cock" slightly in its housing. This misalignment causes the hydraulic seals to wear unevenly, leading to the dreaded "flat strut" (loss of nitrogen/fluid) and making the aircraft difficult to steer. Choosing the genuine Textron 35-820123 ensures the alignment concentricity of the strut assembly is maintained, protecting your landing gear and ensuring smooth, predictable ground handling.
Maintenance & Installation Addendum
The 35-820123 is typically a Press-Fit component.
Tech Tip: During installation, the old bushing should be removed using a specialized drift or puller to avoid scratching the internal bore of the shock absorber housing.
Before pressing in the new 35-820123, the housing should be thoroughly cleaned. Many technicians recommend "chilling" the bushing in a freezer for 30 minutes prior to installation to slightly shrink its diameter, allowing it to slide into the housing with less force, thereby preventing "shaving" of the bushing's outer diameter.
Note: The 35-820123 is a structural suspension component. Installation requires specialized tooling to ensure the bushing is seated squarely. Failure to properly align this bushing can lead to strut seizure. Installation must be performed by a certified A&P mechanic in accordance with the Beechcraft Maintenance Manual (AMM) Chapter 32.