On Apr 16, 2:35*pm, ContestID67 wrote:
I saw this item in another thread and found it interesting.

Do you actually tow with your hand on the release? *What happens at
100 feet when you hit a good bump and accidentally release?

I have had exactly one PTT (premature termination of tow) at about 3
feet AGL when I had my hand on the release handle and hit a bump.
This was in a 1-34 and the release was very sensitive.

My other issue is getting to the release handle on my glass glider
where the handle is about at the limit of my fingertips. *As I have a
CG hook I am concerned about ballooning on tow (happened to a friend
of mine and it didn't end well). *So I worry that during a high-g
event I might not be able to reach the release handle.

What I now use is a LOOSE lanyard between the release and my wrist.
LOOSE so that I don't PTT during a bump. *Attached to my wrist so that
no matter what I will be able to pull the release. *BTW: I don't use
the lanyard for a normal tow release.

Finally - others keep their hand on the airbrake handle to prevent the
brakes opening on tow. *Generally, you can have your hand on the
release *OR* the brakes but not both (unless you fly with your
knees). *With my lanyard approach I can effectively have my hand on
both handles. * *You can see a picture of my simple lanyard athttp://aviation.derosaweb.net/lanyard.

My $0.02. *Your thoughts?

Thanks, John DeRosa

I fly a 1-34 quite a bit....I know what you mean about the release
being "sensitive".....I think there is actually a spec for the min
pull pressure....or maybe its the min back pressure measured at the to
hook.....I remember that we were worried about this and installed a
new spring...

As for your glass glider......How about moving the seat forward and
moving the rudder pedals forward, so you can reach the release?

I never like the idea of adding home brew accessories...

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