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Old September 23rd 08, 06:35 AM posted to rec.aviation.soaring
Pete Brown
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Posts: 36
Default Ground launch payout winch systems...Are they suitable for gliders?

BT, Bill, Ian, and Frank

Thanks for the comments. At our site, I am fairly certain that we could
never use a reverse pulley because airport management wouldn't permit
it. We might get away with a payout winch with a retrieve system so we
could exit the runway quickly after the launch.

I may be forced to visit Gary for a peak at his system.

Pete



BT wrote:
Gary Boggs uses a payout winch system http://www.nwskysports.com/


wrote in message
...
It seems that a payout winch similar to those used for hang gliders
might be useful as a more efficient alternative to auto tows. You can
make better use of the runway length and have perhaps a safer launch
with proper calibration. Is anyone using such systems? Are they
practical? Are they in fact better than a straight auto tow?