Definition
A linkage on a tailwheel-equipped airplane that connects the rudder pedals to the tailwheel, allowing the pilot to steer the airplane on the ground by turning the tailwheel left or right with pedal input. Many designs include a mechanism that disengages the link at larger deflection angles, allowing the tailwheel to swivel freely (caster) for tight turns.
Plain English
It is the system that lets the pilot steer a tailwheel airplane on the ground by pushing the rudder pedals, which physically turn the small wheel at the tail.
Context Anchor
Encountered during taxiing, preflight checks, and ground handling of tailwheel airplanes.
Why Pilots Care
Correct use and maintenance prevent shimmy, loss of directional control, and ground loops during taxi.
Intuition Check
Do not assume the tailwheel always steers exactly like a car’s front wheels. Some tailwheel steering mechanisms have limited movement or can let the wheel swivel freely during tight turns.
Example Sentence 1
During taxi, the pilot used gentle rudder pedal pressure to let the tailwheel steering mechanism guide the airplane down the centerline.
Example Sentence 2
During the post-flight inspection the instructor checked the tailwheel steering mechanism for loose bolts and proper spring tension.