taildragger to trike

but just making the point
that the bolt is mainly to align the under carriage when not in use and
that
friction should greatly exceed any capacity of the bolt when the
airplane's
weight is on the wheels.

oh yeah? how did you work that out?
ever seen one flexing under load?

I haven't watched, but yes they do. And I still think that should provide a
jamming effect.

As to what, if anything should be used as an assembly coating, to prevent
rust, I really don't know.

OTOH, a similar system is used on a number of certified aircraft and
mechinics possess a wealth of knowledge. This is really the sort of thing
that should be discussed over a case of beer.

Peter