Pedal Launcher
 

Has anyone ever used a Pedal Launcher for launching a 2M glider from a Hi Start? I'm interested in hearing the pros and cons.

Pedal Launcher
 

I don't know anything about a pedal launcher. I assume it's a release device. My field really doesn't surpport a Hi-Start. I use a small engine on a power pod which is a lot less gear to take to the flying field. The added weight simply acts as ballest.
I'm sorry but I can't see any advantage to using a pedal launcher.
:)Walt:)

Hi start release
 

An advantage may be to get two hands on the transmitter. Having the plane come off the ground might be fun - or not. The problem would be that a Hi-start has so much tension at release that the device would be problematic and hard on the plane at the points it's holding to - tail?

If your talking about a Winch rather than a Hi-start then, I've read that, you can use them to launch a 2M plane provided your either careful with the pedal or have a strong enough wing. Many 2M planes won't take the kind of pull a Winch can deliver.

Walt, My field is small too. I just use a smaller Hi- start. Total unstreached length is under 50Meters or so. Much more convienient than batteries etc. cheaper too.

Pedal Launcher
 

Any Hi Start can be adapted for use with a pedal launcher by simply adding a short length of line and another ring to the existing ring. The original ring is attached to the pedal launcher and takes all the tension. The new (second) ring is attached to the tow hook on the glider.

The advantages I see in using a pedal launcher with a Hi Start are (i) the pedal launcher takes all the tension OFF the glider while you are waiting for the right moment to launch i.e. a thermal passing through and (ii) you have both hands on the Tx.

However, the disadvantage I see is that you are launching off the ground which might be a bit unpredictable and you are losing a few feet in initial launch height!

The only way you could use a pedal launcher with a winch would be to attach the ring to the tow hook only as there is no problem with tension (until you step on the winch pedal). The only real benefit is that you would have both hands on the Tx.

Pedal Launcher
 

There's an article on pedal launchers in the Sept 2001 issue of S&E Modeler. It describes how to construct an adjustable one from PVC pipe.

I'm interested in hearing from anyone who has built and tried it.