Tow Release Inspection
Sounds like something your Mom told you growing up. Unfortunately, some have forgotten that lesson.
I had a student pilot arrived from another soaring site and told me he just wanted to work on thermalling and did not need any help or supervision with the pre-flight as he was very familiar. Unfortunately, he was not. The Schweizer tow-hook was not freely moving, he didn't look, this is one item we emphasize with our students.
The Service Bulletin clearly explains what should be inspected during a pre-flight. After 60 flights he had not heard of SB's or the recurring AD.
Sometimes when you fly with other instructors or at other sites you learn different tricks that they have learned over the years. Many sites and instructors emphasize different things. There is generally good advice to be had.
I have had many good discoveries talking to other instructors over the years. Take the time with an instructor to learn, do not stay too focused on your one goal. The instructor may see other items you should prioritize.
Reminder for Tost releases:
TBO of Tost releases April 19, 2001, TBO 2000 launches accordingly 10,000 actuations. Life-limiting part is the release spring, with a life expectancy of about 10,000 actuations. These life-limiting parts apply to your factory built experimental glider also. Read more here.
Banner Photo: Jan Czonstke
TOST G-Series Tow Release - Since 1952 TOST has manufactured releases for gliders. The G-Series Tow Release is a center of gravity tow release.
Oudie IGC is the least expensive all-in-one certified data logger, vario and flight computer with a moving map. It comes ready to fly with a sunlight readable screen and a battery good for more than 12 hours.
Garret Willat holds a flight instructor rating with over 8000 hours in sailplanes. His parents have owned Sky Sailing Inc. since 1979. He started instructing the day after his 18th birthday. Since then, Garret has represented the US Junior team in 2003 and 2005. He graduated from Embry-Riddle with a bachelor's degree in Professional Aeronautics. Garret represented the US Open Class team in 2008 and 2010 and the Club Class team in 2014. Garret has won 3 US National Championships.
