I thought that this would be an interesting reprint (below my
signature) of the last page (un-numbered) of the Schweizer 2-33 manual
which details how to tie down the ship. This page may have been added
to the manual as an addendum after some accidents. The only section
in the main part of the manual (pg 1-8) which deals with tie downs
simply states;

"The 2-33 should never be left unattended in strong winds or gusty
conditions. Tie downs are at each wing where main struts are attached
and at tail wheel bracket. Be sure ropes and stakes used for tying
down are adequate and in good condition."

We had all of these recommendations except for a tail stand. In our
case, raising the tail might have lowered the force on the nose hook,
maybe preventing the hook from failing, and maybe saving the glider.
A lot of maybe's.

- John

=================

Schweizer 2-33 Tie Down Requirements

Many more sailplanes are damaged on the ground by the wind than in
flying accidents. It is usually due to leaving the ship unsecured or
using inadequate tie downs.

In the normal, tail down, ground position, the wing has a high angle
of attack. A 2-22 or 2-33 (empty wgt. 500#), facing into the wind
will be subjected to life forces as shown:

Wind Lift Net Lift
30 mph 750 250#
40 mph 1,300 800#
50 mph 2,000 1,500#
60 mph 2,900 2,400#
70 mph 3.950 3,450#
80 mph 5,200 4,700#

Therefore, it is very important that adequate tie downs are provided.
The folloing procedures are recommended:

1) Sheltered Area: Tail down, ropes(*), at wings and tail (***).
2) Unsheltered Area: Facing in the prevailing wind. Rope at wings and
tail, and chain tie down to release hook.
3) Unsheltered - High Wind Hazard: Tail support on padded stand. Rope
to wing and two ropes to tail. Short chain (5/16" welded link), tie
down to tow hook.
4) Flightline Tie Down: Short chain tie down to tow hook (tail in
air). Water filled tie tube on end of one wing.

Note:

* Minimum size of recommend ropes - 5/16" nylon or ½" manila - renew
each season. (Knots can reduce rope strength 50%)
** Size ans stype of ground anchor will depend on soil composition and
type of sailplane. In light sandy soils, anchor arm or chain longer
and set deeper. A ground anchor should be able to withstand a
vertical pull of at least 2,000#. Should not be located directly
under tie downs.
*** Ruddlelock - recommended if control locks are not used. Ailerons
and elevator can be secured with seat belt around control stick.
**** Securing the spoilers or dive brakes open will decrease lifting
forces.