Pacific Scientific T5-8005-109-00 Cable Tensiometer

The Pacific Scientific T5-8005-109-00 is the entry-level ultra-high-range model in the T5-8005 sub-series — and the first standard T5 instrument to exceed 1000 lbs, reaching a ceiling of 1300 lbs on cable sizes 3/16" through 5/16". It is the instrument specified when transport-category aircraft, large military platforms, and heavy aerospace systems require primary flight control cable tension verification above the threshold that defines the top of the T5-8003 series. With a unified 250–1300 lb range across all four supported cable sizes and 50 lb reading intervals throughout on calibration card T597-109, the T5-8005-109-00 extends the Pacific Scientific T5 platform into the extreme upper tension range where only the most demanding aircraft cable systems operate. Built on the T5-8005 Ref C mitten-grip platform — the heaviest T5 frame — it delivers the structural robustness required for precision measurement at tension loads approaching 1300 lbs.

Beyond the T5-8003 Ceiling — Into the Ultra-High-Range Zone

The T5-8003 sub-series tops out at 1000 lbs with the T5-8003-108-00. The T5-8005-109-00 starts at 250 lbs and reaches 1300 lbs — 300 lbs beyond that ceiling — on the same four cable sizes (3/16"–5/16") across a single unified range. For maintenance programs that have historically used T5-8003 instruments and are encountering cable tension specifications above 1000 lbs for the first time, the T5-8005-109-00 is the direct next-step instrument. There is one critical operational distinction to be aware of when transitioning from the T5-8003 sub-series: on the T5-8005-109-00, Riser #2 is used for 3/16" cables — not Riser #2C as used on T5-8003 instruments for the same cable size. This shift reflects the different deflection geometry required at extreme tension loads on 3/16" cable. Riser #2C is used for 7/32" and 1/4" cables, and Riser #3A for 5/16" cables. Always confirm riser selection against calibration card T597-109 before taking any measurement, and reference the supplementary Table 6-1 within that card for the highest readings on 1/4" cable. Zero temperature error means the instrument is accurate in any ambient condition and ready for immediate use.

1300 lbs. Four Cable Sizes. One Calibration Card.

• 250–1300 lb unified range — first standard T5 instrument to exceed 1000 lbs; 300 lbs above T5-8003-108-00
• Four cable sizes — 3/16", 7/32", 1/4", and 5/16"
• Riser #2 for 3/16" — critical operational distinction from T5-8003 sub-series (which uses Riser #2C for 3/16"); confirm before every measurement
• 50 lb reading intervals — consistent with T5-8003 sub-series; appropriately scaled for ultra-high-range primary cable work
• Calibration card T597-109 — unified card for all cable sizes with supplementary Table 6-1 for high readings on 1/4" cable
• T5-8005 Ref C mitten-grip platform — heaviest T5 frame; engineered for ultra-high-tension cable work and cold-weather heavy maintenance
• 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: 250 – 1300 lbs (unified across all cable sizes)
• Cable Sizes: 3/16", 7/32", 1/4", 5/16"
• Riser — 3/16": Riser #2 (NOT Riser #2C — confirm against T597-109)
• Riser — 7/32", 1/4": Riser #2C
• Riser — 5/16": Riser #3A
• Reading Interval: 50 lbs throughout 250–1300 lb range
• Series Platform: T5-8005 Ref C — mitten-grip design; heaviest T5 platform
• Calibration Card: T597-109 (with supplementary Table 6-1 for high reading on 1/4" cable)
• 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 and large military aircraft primary cable tension verification above 1000 lbs
• Heavy aerospace platforms with primary cable tensions specified in the 1000–1300 lb range on 3/16"–5/16" cables
• Any application where the T5-8003-108-00's 1000 lb ceiling is insufficient
• Cold-weather heavy maintenance requiring mitten-grip operation at extreme tension levels
• MRO facilities maintaining the largest transport-category and military aircraft
• Post-repair and return-to-service verification on extreme-tension primary cable systems

Pacific Scientific T5-8005-109-00 Calibration

The T5-8005-109-00 should be recalibrated on a scheduled basis — annually at minimum, and immediately following any overload event, mechanical shock, or drop. At tensions approaching 1300 lbs on primary flight control cables, calibration currency is a fundamental safety-critical maintenance requirement — a calibration error at this range represents a substantial absolute tension deviation with direct airworthiness implications. Pilot John International operates an ISO 17025-accredited calibration laboratory capable of recalibrating Pacific Scientific T5-8005 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 →