Lins

A coworker has mentioned he has the plans for a 12' glider and would like to build it over the winter. I'm all about power, and wondering what is a good tug for that size of glider that I could keep in mind for my next plane? (preferably ARF or an easy builder) I don't know exactly what model glider he has right now, sorry.

bogbeagle

Seems to me that you need a big tug ... but for just one reason.

That reason is nothing to do with power and everything to do with visibility. There's no point in having to abandon the tow because the tug pilot can no longer see his model.

You should be able to tow your 12' glider to 1000' or more, so you'll need a tug which is sufficiently large as to enable it to be flown at great distances.





RE power. I'm not an expert on aero-towing matters, but my own experience suggests that a 1.20-sized tug' motor will provide plenty of power for this job. The ubiquitous 1/4 scale Cub comes to mind as being appropriately sized for visibility. I base this assessment upon the ease with which my T180 (with .90 two-stroke) will tow 2 x 2.6 m Discus gliders ... see video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k74EqrITs6E

BarracudaHockey

My Feedback: (11)

We use a Lanier Huskey converted to 10S electric. I forget which Turnigy motor is on it but it swings a 20x10 or Vess 20b and snatches pretty big gliders up with no problem.

iflytailies

My Feedback: (82)

Most economical: Senior Telemaster - powered by an E-Flite 160, Castle Creations HV-85 controller, 20x8 APC prop, and two 5S-4800 lipos in series (to make it 10S) . With once charge, I am able to perform six tows with 4m gliders (10lbs.) Flies very well!

You may also power a 100" tug with 30-400cc gas to tow 4m sailplanes. Suggestions for towing here:

http://www.iflytailies.com/aerotowing-tow-line/

Lins

Thanks, I was just checking out the Telemasters yesterday, actually. I would be all over the Giant, but unfortunately I don't want to go crazy oversize. I'm debating a 1/4 scale cub, Super or modified with flaps, and a DA50 for the extra strength just in case I need it. It's pricier, but nice and light for the amount of power it has.

flyall

I'm using a Dynaflite 90" super Decathalon with a first place 52 cc can tow up to 5 meter with no proplem.

iflytailies

My Feedback: (82)

I was talking about the Senior Telemaster, which is smaller than a 1/4 scale Cub

Lins

I know, I would just prefer the Giant over the Senior, that's all, but unfortunately it would be way overkill.

Lins

Thanks, I'll keep that in mind, too.

iflytailies

My Feedback: (82)

I also fly the 12' Telemaster as a tug. It is powered by a Hacker A150-10. Maiden flight video here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7UTIrHqiHJ4