Adj. tow hook or not
05-22-2004, 03:11 PM
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Adj. tow hook or not
Hey guys, I'm at the point where I have to decide whether to use the fixed tow hook provided with my new kit, a 118" NOS/RES 6.5oz/sq.ft ship installed at the location indcated by designer or to go for a Adj. hook. I'm not a real Comp. flyer, bur would prob. get involved in club type contests, LSF events etc. Would it be worth the trouble and extra expense? Iv'e seen a nice looking Adj. hook featured in the soaring column of RCM by Kennedy Composites and am thinking of getting it. Any other suggestions?
Rick
Rick
05-22-2004, 05:22 PM
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RE: Adj. tow hook or not
That looks like a bit of overkill for your size plane. Remember, it's dead weight once you're off the line.
I'd start out with the towhook per the plans. If you find it's off enough to warrant a change, move the hole or make a slot, and reinforce around it as necessary. If you make a narrow U-shaped strap to fit inside the fuse, you can move it with the towhook so there will be very little stress around the hole.
Just as an aside, I've built about twenty-five sailplanes from an Oly 650 to a Sagitta XC, and I've only had to move a towhook once. I made a pile of money selling my stash of Airtronics adjustable tow hooks on eBay a while back.
Roger
I'd start out with the towhook per the plans. If you find it's off enough to warrant a change, move the hole or make a slot, and reinforce around it as necessary. If you make a narrow U-shaped strap to fit inside the fuse, you can move it with the towhook so there will be very little stress around the hole.
Just as an aside, I've built about twenty-five sailplanes from an Oly 650 to a Sagitta XC, and I've only had to move a towhook once. I made a pile of money selling my stash of Airtronics adjustable tow hooks on eBay a while back.
Roger
05-26-2004, 05:59 PM
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RE: Adj. tow hook or not
Smokin Joe:
Hilaunch.com sells adjustable towhooks similar to the old Airtronics unit. They don't have as much adjustment, but should be plenty. I think the hook is stronger as well.
EJ
Hilaunch.com sells adjustable towhooks similar to the old Airtronics unit. They don't have as much adjustment, but should be plenty. I think the hook is stronger as well.
EJ
