Pacific Scientific T5-8003-209-00 Cable Tensiometer

The Pacific Scientific T5-8003-209-00 is one of the most specialized instruments in the T5-8000 series — and the only standard T5 model in current production that covers 3/8" aircraft control cable. With a range of 200–400 lbs across cable sizes 1/4", 5/16", and 3/8", it serves the specific segment of the aircraft maintenance market where primary control cables are built to heavier-than-standard specifications: large military aircraft, heavy transport systems, and specialized aerospace platforms where 3/8" cable diameters and mid-range primary control tensions in the 200–400 lb zone are specified in the maintenance manual. It is listed under NSN 1710-00-594-1376 — Federal Supply Class 1710 (Aircraft Ground Handling and Servicing Equipment), a different procurement channel from the FSC 6635 designation used by most other T5 instruments, which has specific implications for government and military supply system procurement.

The Only Standard T5 Model That Reaches 3/8" Cable

Across the entire Pacific Scientific T5-2000 and T5-8000 standard product line, the T5-8003-209-00 is the sole instrument calibrated for 3/8" aircraft control cable. Every other standard model tops out at 5/16". The T5-8203-108-00 also covers 3/8" but is a specialized ultra-high-range instrument (200–1000 lbs on 3/8" cable only, with Riser #3B); the T5-8003-209-00 is the instrument for 3/8" cable at moderate primary control tensions (200–400 lbs), also covering 1/4" and 5/16" cables on the same calibration card. The instrument uses Riser #4 for all three cable sizes — a riser found exclusively on this model in the standard T5 line, purpose-designed for the larger cable contact geometry required on 1/4"–3/8" cables at mid-range tensions. Calibration card T5178-211 documents the dial-to-pounds conversion across the full 200–400 lb range with 25 lb reading intervals, providing the resolution needed for precise mid-range tension verification on large-diameter cable systems. Built on the T5-8003 Ref C mitten-grip platform, it carries the structural robustness of the heaviest T5 frame and operates with zero temperature error in any ambient condition.

A Unique Instrument for a Specific Application

• Only standard T5 covering 3/8" cable — no other current-production standard T5 instrument reaches this cable size
• 200–400 lb range — mid-range coverage matched to large-diameter primary cable tension specifications
• Three cable sizes: 1/4", 5/16", 3/8" — large-diameter primary cable group not served by any other single T5 instrument
• Riser #4 — used for all three cable sizes; the only T5 model in the standard line that uses this riser exclusively
• 25 lb reading intervals — precise resolution across the full 200–400 lb range on calibration card T5178-211
• NSN 1710-00-594-1376 — FSC 1710 classification; procured through Aircraft Ground Handling & Servicing Equipment supply channels
• T5-8003 Ref C mitten-grip platform — heaviest T5 frame; purpose-built for large-cable heavy maintenance and cold-weather operation
• 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
• No batteries or electronics — fully mechanical, always ready

Technical Specifications

• Tension Range: 200 – 400 lbs (all supported cable sizes)
• Cable Sizes: 1/4", 5/16", 3/8"
• Riser: Riser #4 — used for all three cable sizes
• Reading Interval: 25 lbs throughout 200–400 lb range
• Series Platform: T5-8003 Ref C — mitten-grip design; heaviest T5 platform
• Calibration Card: T5178-211
• NSN: 1710-00-594-1376 (FSC 1710 — Aircraft Ground Handling & Servicing Equipment)
• 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

• Large military and transport aircraft with 3/8" primary control cables at 200–400 lb specifications
• Heavy aerospace platforms where primary cable systems use 3/8" diameter cables
• Any aircraft maintenance program requiring 3/8" cable tension measurement in the 200–400 lb range
• Government and military procurement through FSC 1710 supply channels (NSN 1710-00-594-1376)
• MRO facilities servicing platforms with mixed 1/4"–3/8" large-diameter primary cable systems
• Post-repair and return-to-service verification on 3/8" cable primary control systems

Pacific Scientific T5-8003-209-00 Calibration

The T5-8003-209-00 should be recalibrated on a scheduled basis — annually at minimum, and immediately following any overload event, mechanical shock, or drop. As the only standard T5 instrument calibrated for 3/8" cable, maintaining calibration currency on this model is especially critical — there is no direct substitute instrument if an out-of-calibration reading is missed. 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 →