Hello,

We are installing a Tost E-85 tow hitch on a Super Cub. We wrote up a
nice 337 for the Feds. They approved of the bracket we fabricated.

However, they are refusing to sign off on the E-85 hook. Think we've
run into the same Feds who tried to ground Bob Hoover. Anyway, they
are saying the hook is unapproved since it was foreign built. They
are saying its an uncertified part. However, we've sent them a copy
of the Tost manufacturing certificate, the German LBA approval, their
own reciprocity agreement with the LBA, and a copy of the EASA
bilateral agreements regarding STC and parts. No luck. Now they are
demanding a Form 8130 from another tow hook installation in which an
E-85 was used. Either that, or put the Cub in the
Experimental category, which is a non starter. The installation as it
stands is one of the best I've seen on any tow plane in 40 years.
Unfortunately, there is not a soul in the FSDO that has any experience
on either end of the rope, and they are trying to make up rules as
they go.....

E-85's are used on most certified gliders, and on most Tost equipped
tow planes. What we need is a copy of someone's E-85 installation
regarding the legality of the install, a form 8130 or 337 showing
previous usage.... Help!

Steve
Std Cirrus K9