Hi Jay,

Anschau (builder of the Komet series) is still very much in business. I recently had a round of communication with them regarding a more recent version of the Komet (circa 1999), and it was a good experience. I would start by emailing them using the link on their website: http://www.anschau.de/englishversion.htm

Between their fair English and my fair German, we were able to communicate. I would start by asking for drawings of the areas you are interested in (primarily the tongue and surge brake based on your note). A lot of things are clearer once you see these.

I did a lot of work on my 1981 vintage Komet, including replacing the entire tongue assembly after someone else wrecked it in a car accident. The parts are very expensive, especially if they are shipped specifically for you (assuming here you are in the US). Most big parts tend to be "piggy backed" along with another shipment - i.e. stuck inside a new trailer that is coming over.

IIRC, a lot of the parts are from AL-KO, which does have a presence in the US. It might be worth trying them directly if you can find the AL-KO part numbers (e.g. for the coupler).



On Thursday, December 1, 2011 4:33:00 PM UTC-5, Jay Allardyce wrote:
Hello All,

The sailplane I recently purchased came with a older Komet trailer
(1977 vintage) in need of some serious work. I was hoping to get some
perspective from those who may have a Komet trailer of similar
vintage.

Firstly, the actual coupling that hooks up to the ball on the hitch is
bent. Does anyone know of a source for a replacement. If we were to
purchase a new one from the manufacturer, would it fit on the older
trailers?

Second question is on the surge brake. Mine is currently deactivated;
however, I have a feeling it needs to be recharged. When I accelerate,
there is a loud bang which presumably is the surge brake moving. Does
anyone know how to fix this?

Any help or perspective would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance.

Regards,
Jay