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Old April 7th 08, 04:34 AM posted to rec.aviation.soaring
Brian[_1_]
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Posts: 399
Default Trailer decision time.

By Gehrlein trailer do you mean something like what is shown at the
top of this web page:

http://www.jimphoenix.com/jimphoenix...btrailers.html

This web site also has some good ideas for different trailes.

for an open trailer a Gerhrlein style trailer is hard to beat. The
open truss structure with the light weight tubing makes for a
reasonably light weight and strong trailer. If you are planning on
staying with an open trailer I would recommend this style of trailer.
Of course you can adjust widths and lengths to match your glider.
Mine had a plywood floor which I loved because I could easly walk on
it while loading and unloading the glider. I do like either a hinged
back section or a easy to use ramp so that I don't have to disconnect
the trailer from the vehical while assembling. I also like the
trailer designed so that the horzontal stablizer can remain on the
glider, this greatly speed assembly time. I could assembly my 1-26 in
about 20 minutes off of my Gerhrlein style trailer.

Both of my trailers have had the leaf spring suspension and towed
great. However I have built a couple trailers with the Torsion Bar
Suspension and really like them. Your glider is light enough I don't
think you need brakes unless you are going to tow with a small car.

If you are thinking enclosed trailer I would suggest you look a the
schreder style trailer. I have access to a full set of plans if you
are interested. The schreder trailers aren't as nice as the Cobra
style trailers but if set up properly they can work very well. I am
always amazed how poorly many trailers work.

Yesterday I left my house at 1:00 drove the airport with the HP16T
(Schreder style trailer) in tow and arrived at the airport at 1:15.
with the help of two assistants I assembled the glider, and launched
at 1:40.for a 4 hour flight. I have spent a fair amount of time making
my trailer user frieindly and it pays off in the assembly ease and
time. I still have a few thing I can do to improve it further.

Brian
HP16T N16VP
www.soaridaho.com