Pacific Scientific T60-1001-C8-1A Cable Tensiometer
The Pacific Scientific T60-1001-C8-1A is a direct-reading aircraft cable tensiometer that brings a fundamentally faster measurement experience to flight control cable rigging and tension verification. Covering 10–200 lbs across all standard aircraft cable diameters from 1/16" to 1/4" and carrying the U.S.A.F. Type C8 designation, the T60-1001-C8-1A delivers the precision and documentation support of the Pacific Scientific T5 series — with no riser blocks to select, no calibration chart to reference, and no conversion math required. Place the instrument on the cable, read the built-in gauge, align the dial, and read tension directly. That's it.
What Sets the T60 Apart from the T5 Series
The T5 series tensiometers are exceptional instruments — but they require the technician to select the correct riser block for the cable size, then convert the dial reading to actual tension using the calibration chart. The T60-1001-C8-1A eliminates both steps. A built-in integrated cable diameter gauge identifies the cable size on the instrument itself, and tension is read directly off the dial face — no chart lookup, no conversion, no additional parts. With no alternate risers required for any of the supported cable sizes, there are no losable parts and the instrument is always ready for immediate use. For a technician working through a cable rigging inspection on a complex airframe, that simplification translates to meaningful time savings across an entire maintenance event.
Engineered for the Demands of Real Aircraft Maintenance
- No risers required — handles 1/16", 3/32", 1/8", 3/16", 7/32", and 1/4" cables with no accessories to select or manage
- Built-in cable diameter gauge — integrated gauge identifies cable size directly on the instrument, eliminating guesswork
- Direct-reading dial — tension displayed in pounds directly on the dial face; no chart conversion step
- 3-point positive cable grip — prevents dislodgement when the instrument is hanging free on a control cable
- Push-button pointer lock — holds the dial reading precisely before the instrument is removed in low-visibility areas
- One-handed operation — comfortable lever grip usable with service mittens or gloves in severe cold
- Serialized calibration bar — serial-matched field accuracy check included with every unit
- Over-range durable — not damaged by cable tensions beyond the rated scale
Technical Specifications
- Tension Range: 10 – 200 lbs
- Cable Sizes: 1/16", 3/32", 1/8", 3/16", 7/32", 1/4"
- Cable Construction: 7x7 stranding (1/16", 3/32"); 7x19 stranding (1/8"–1/4"); MIL-DTL-83420 flexible aircraft cable
- Accuracy: ±5% of indicated reading or one minor division, whichever is greater
- Indicator: Black dial, direct reading — no chart conversion
- Risers Required: None
- Cable Gauge: Integrated built-in
- Pointer Lock: Push-button
- Calibration Reference: Serialized calibration bar (serial-matched to instrument)
- USAF Equivalent: Type C8
- Operating Temperature: -65°F to 160°F (-53°C to 71°C)
- Operation: Fully mechanical — no batteries or electronics required
- Origin: Made in the USA
- Warranty: 1 year on new units
Typical Applications
- Aircraft primary and secondary flight control cable tension checks across all standard cable sizes
- Maintenance operations requiring fastest possible measurement workflow
- Military aircraft flight control maintenance (U.S.A.F. Type C8 equivalent)
- Cold-weather maintenance where gloves or mittens must be worn during cable checks
- Confined access areas where the 3-point grip and pointer lock are operationally critical
- MRO facilities servicing diverse aircraft fleets across multiple cable sizes and tension ranges
Pacific Scientific T60-1001-C8-1A Calibration
Each T60-1001-C8-1A ships with a serialized calibration bar that allows a fast field accuracy check — clamp the instrument on the bar and compare the reading to the bar's tag value. For formal recalibration, annual service is recommended, or immediately following any overload event, mechanical shock, or drop. Pilot John International operates an ISO 17025-accredited calibration laboratory capable of recalibrating Pacific Scientific T60 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 # | T60-1001-C8-1A |
| Manufacturer | Pacific Scientific |
| Shipping Information | |
|---|---|
| Product Weight | 2.6 lbs. |
| Product Dimensions | 9.5 x 7.5 x 3 in. |
| Schedule B | 9027908950 |
| ECCN | EAR99 |
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Accuracy | ±5% of indicated reading or one minor division, whichever is greater |
| Cable Construction | 7x7 (1/16", 3/32"); 7x19 (1/8"–1/4") |
| Cable Gauge | Built-in integrated cable diameter gauge |
| Cable Grip | 3-point positive grip prevents dislodgement on free-hanging cable |
| Cable Sizes | 1/16", 3/32", 1/8", 3/16", 7/32", 1/4" |
| Calibration Reference | Serialized calibration bar included (serial-matched to instrument) |
| Indicator Type | Black Dial Indicating — direct reading, no chart conversion |
| Manufactured | USA |
| Operating Temperature | -65°F to 160°F (-53°C to 71°C) |
| Operation | Fully mechanical — no batteries or electronics required |
| Pointer Lock | Yes — push-button pointer lock |
| Risers Required | None — no alternate risers for any supported cable size |
| Tension Range | 10 – 200 lbs |
| USAF Equivalent | Type C8 |
| Warranty | 1 Year (new units) |
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AIRCRAFT COMPATIBILITY
This item is for use on all aircraft.
PRODUCT REVIEWS
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
No, the T60-1001-C8-1A cable tensiometer does not have an adjustable riser. It is a direct reading meter.
The T60-1001-C8-1A cable tensiometer is specifically calibrated for standard 7x7 and 7x19 multi-strand aircraft cables in sizes from 1/16" to 1/4". These are the most commonly used flexible wire ropes in aircraft control systems. The device is not suitable for measuring non-flexible cables or cables of different constructions unless recalibrated accordingly. For optimal accuracy, it’s essential to use the tensiometer only with the cable types for which it was calibrated.
The T60-1001-C8-1A offers accuracy within ±5% of the indicator reading or one minor division on the dial, whichever is greater. For best results, users should take three to five tension readings at slightly different points along the cable and average them. This accounts for the uneven surface of stranded cables, which can affect readings if taken in isolation.
Yes, the T60-1001-C8-1A cable tensiometer is built for performance in harsh environmental conditions. Its operating temperature range is from -65°F to 160°F (-53°C to 71°C), making the device suitable for field use in cold-weather maintenance operations and hot hangar environments without compromising measurement accuracy.
Minimal maintenance is required, but the instrument should be kept clean – especially around the sectors and riser block. While the unit is pre-lubricated at the factory, relubrication may be needed if repairs are performed. Dow Corning #33 or equivalent grease is recommended for any necessary lubrication on moving parts.
The T60-1001-C8-1A tensiometer should always be stored in its protective carrying case to prevent physical damage. No special storage conditions are required beyond standard best practices: keep it clean, dry, and in a stable temperature environment. To extend its service life, avoid dropping or mishandling the unit.
Pacific Scientific provides a one-year warranty on new cable tensiometers. The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use but does not apply if the unit is dropped, tampered with, or otherwise damaged. Shipping costs to and from the manufacturer are not covered under the warranty.
Yes, but you must set the dial based on the coated outer diameter (O.D.) rather than the uncoated cable size. Using the integrated cable gauge helps determine the correct setting before taking readings. This adjustment ensures accurate tension measurements despite the added insulation layer.
If readings vary more than expected, inspect the instrument for dirt, worn components, or improper use. Clean the jaw and riser block, check calibration against the bar, and ensure proper handling technique. If problems persist, recalibration or service may be required to restore consistent performance.
The T60 eliminates the riser blocks and calibration chart required by the T5 series. It has a built-in cable diameter gauge that identifies cable size directly on the instrument, and tension is read directly off the dial face — no conversion chart needed. With no risers to select or lose, the T60 is always ready for immediate use and the measurement process is faster from start to finish.
No. The T60 requires no alternate risers for any of the supported cable sizes (1/16" through 1/4"). This is one of its primary advantages over the T5 series.
It is calibrated for standard flexible multi-strand aircraft control cables conforming to MIL-DTL-83420 — 7x7 construction for 1/16" and 3/32" cables, and 7x19 construction for 1/8" through 1/4" cables. It is not suitable for non-flexible cables unless recalibrated accordingly.
Each unit ships with a serialized calibration bar whose serial number matches the tensiometer. Clamp the instrument on the bar and compare the dial reading to the tag value stamped on the bar. A reading within ±2% confirms the instrument is performing within specification. Readings outside that range indicate recalibration is needed.
