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Old January 2nd 11, 11:11 PM posted to rec.aviation.soaring
John Chapman
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Posts: 2
Default poor lateral control on a slow tow?

The discussion of forces surrounding a climb on high tow has been
interesting.
However, has anyone considered descent on tow?

A SGS 2-33 glider descending on tow behind a Cessna 182 has some
interesting lateral control issues.
* Descending behind a 182 with 10 degrees of flap at 65 mph in high
tow with full spoilers is reasonably stable.
* At 40 degrees of flap the 2-33 is almost uncontrollable. You need
full stick and some patience to recover from the frequent level flight
excursions.
The 182 high lift/high drag wake is the obvious difference.

Would anyone care to venture an analysis or opinion?

Cheers, John Chapman, 1DG