Pacific Scientific T5-8003-108-00 Cable Tensiometer
The Pacific Scientific T5-8003-108-00 is the highest-range model in the T5-8003 sub-series on the standard 3/16"–5/16" cable size group — calibrated for primary flight control cable tension measurement from 200 to 1000 lbs. It is the T5-8003 instrument specified when transport-category aircraft, large military platforms, and heavy rotary-wing systems require cable tension verification at loads that exceed the T5-8003-107-00's 800 lb upper limit. Above 1000 lbs on these cable sizes, the measurement requirement transitions to the T5-8005 sub-series; the T5-8003-108-00 is the definitive T5-8003 model for the highest tension demands on 3/16"–5/16" cables before that crossover. Built on the T5-8003 Ref C platform — the heaviest and most structurally robust frame in the Pacific Scientific T5 line — it features the mitten-grip design that allows full one-handed operation at extreme tension ranges even in cold-weather environments with heavy gloves or service mittens.
The T5-8003 Ceiling — 1000 lbs on Large Primary Control Cables
The T5-8003 sub-series spans 40 to 1000 lbs across three standard models on the 3/16"–5/16" cable group, and the T5-8003-108-00 defines the upper boundary of that range. Its 200–1000 lb coverage — with 50 lb reading intervals throughout on calibration card T597-108 — is matched to the cable tension specifications found on the largest transport-category and military aircraft where primary flight control loads push into territory that no T5-8002 or lighter T5-8003 instrument can reach. The cable size coverage (3/16", 7/32", 1/4", and 5/16") and riser configuration (Riser #2C for 3/16"; Riser #3 for 7/32" and 1/4"; Riser #3A for 5/16") follow the same T5-8003 sub-series pattern established on the -106-00 and -107-00, making instrument transitions within the sub-series straightforward for experienced technicians. At tensions approaching 1000 lbs, riser selection accuracy and calibration currency are especially critical — always confirm riser selection against T597-108 before taking any measurement, and maintain the annual recalibration schedule without exception. Zero temperature error means the instrument is accurate in any ambient condition and ready for immediate use.
Extreme Tension. Proven Platform. Maximum Precision.
- 200–1000 lb range — the highest T5-8003 range on 3/16"–5/16" cables; 200 lbs above the T5-8003-107-00 ceiling
- Four large cable sizes — 3/16", 7/32", 1/4", and 5/16"
- Ref C mitten-grip platform — heaviest T5 frame; engineered for extreme-tension cable work and cold-weather heavy maintenance
- 50 lb reading intervals — appropriately scaled resolution across the full 200–1000 lb range
- Calibration card T597-108 — purpose-specific for this model's range profile
- Riser set: #2C, #3, #3A — matched to cable size per T597-108; confirm before every measurement
- Zero temperature error — calibration-stable from -53°C to 71°C, no adjustment required
- Pointer lock brake lever — retains reading before removal in confined or overhead access areas
- One-handed mitten-grip operation — operable at extreme tension ranges with heavy gloves
- No batteries or electronics — fully mechanical, always ready
Technical Specifications
- Tension Range: 200 – 1000 lbs (all supported cable sizes)
- Cable Sizes: 3/16", 7/32", 1/4", 5/16"
- Riser — 3/16": Riser #2C
- Riser — 7/32", 1/4": Riser #3
- Riser — 5/16": Riser #3A (confirm against T597-108)
- Reading Interval: 50 lbs throughout 200–1000 lb range
- Series Platform: T5-8003 Ref C — mitten-grip design; heaviest T5 platform
- Calibration Card: T597-108
- Indicator: Black dial indicating
- Temperature Stability: Zero temperature error; operates from -53°C to 71°C
- Pointer Lock: Yes — brake lever rod
- Origin: Made in the USA
- Warranty: 1 year on new units
Typical Applications
- Transport-category aircraft primary flight control cable tension verification above 800 lbs
- Large military aircraft with 3/16"–5/16" primary control cables in the 200–1000 lb range
- Heavy rotary-wing platforms where primary cable tensions approach or exceed 800 lbs
- Cold-weather heavy maintenance requiring mitten-grip operation at extreme tension levels
- MRO facilities maintaining the largest transport and military aircraft requiring a 1000 lb ceiling
- Post-repair and return-to-service verification on large-diameter extreme-tension primary cable systems
Pacific Scientific T5-8003-108-00 Calibration
The T5-8003-108-00 should be recalibrated on a scheduled basis — annually at minimum, and immediately following any overload event, mechanical shock, or drop. At tensions up to 1000 lbs on primary flight control cables, a calibration error produces a large absolute tension deviation — at this range, maintaining calibration currency is not optional and should be treated as a primary safety-critical maintenance activity. Pilot John International operates an ISO 17025-accredited calibration laboratory capable of recalibrating Pacific Scientific T5-8003 series tensiometers to original manufacturer specifications, issuing a fully traceable calibration certificate upon completion. Whether your maintenance program operates under FAA oversight, a DOD contract, or an ISO 9001 quality management system, PJi's lab delivers the traceability and documentation your compliance requirements demand. Learn more about PJi's ISO 17025 Calibration Services →
| General Information | |
|---|---|
| Part # | T5-8003-108-00 |
| Manufacturer | Pacific Scientific |
| Manual 1 | View Manual |
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Cable Sizes | 3/16", 7/32", 1/4", 5/16" |
| Calibration Card | T597-108 |
| Calibration Certificate | Included |
| Indicator Type | Black Dial Indicating |
| Manufactured | USA |
| Pointer Lock | Yes — brake lever rod for retained readings |
| Reading Interval | 50 lbs throughout 200–1000 lb range |
| Riser — 3/16" | Riser #2C |
| Riser — 5/16" | Riser #3A (confirm against calibration card T597-108) |
| Riser — 7/32", 1/4" | Riser #3 |
| Series Platform | T5-8003 (Ref C — heaviest platform; mitten-grip design) |
| Temperature Stability | Zero temperature error; operates in extreme heat and cold |
| Tension Range | 200 – 1000 lbs (all supported cable sizes) |
| Warranty | 1 Year (new units) |
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QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
The T5-8003-107-00 covers 100–800 lbs and the T5-8003-108-00 covers 200–1000 lbs — both on 3/16"–5/16" cables on the same Ref C platform. The -108-00 starts 100 lbs higher and extends 200 lbs beyond the -107-00's ceiling. For aircraft whose primary cable tension specifications fall in the 800–1000 lb zone, the -108-00 is the correct instrument. For tensions above 1000 lbs on these cable sizes, the T5-8005 sub-series (250–2000 lbs) provides the next level of coverage.
The T5-8003-108-00 uses 50 lb reading intervals throughout the 200–1000 lb range as documented on calibration card T597-108. At high tension levels, a 50 lb interval provides appropriately scaled resolution — the primary interest at these ranges is confirming that the cable tension is within the aircraft maintenance manual's specified tolerance band, which is typically expressed in absolute pound values rather than percentages. This is consistent with the reading interval approach used across the T5-8003 sub-series.
The T5-8003-108-00 is calibrated for the large cable diameter range where transport-category and heavy military aircraft primary control cable tensions in the 200–1000 lb zone are found. Cable sizes smaller than 3/16" (1/8", 5/32") are not typically specified at tensions in the 200–1000 lb range in standard aircraft cable systems — those tensions on smaller cables would require a specialized instrument like the T5-8002-211-00 (35–350 lbs on 1/16"–1/8"). If your program requires both small cable and 200+ lb coverage, contact PJi for guidance on the appropriate instrument combination.
Annual recalibration is the standard interval, or sooner following any overload event, mechanical shock, or drop. At the 1000 lb upper range, treating the annual recalibration interval as non-negotiable is especially important — calibration drift at this range produces large absolute errors on primary flight control cables. Pilot John International's ISO 17025-accredited calibration laboratory performs recalibration of Pacific Scientific T5-8003 series tensiometers to original manufacturer specifications, issuing a fully traceable calibration certificate. Visit pilotjohn.com/calibration to learn more or request service.
