Spoiler Signal

On Jul 24, 9:04*am, Andy wrote:
On Jul 24, 5:07*am, 150flivver wrote:



I disagree. *There should be an urgent, serious emergency type signal--
the wing rock, and a not-so-serious, advisory type signal such as the
rudder waggle. *If you can't keep the two separated, then perhaps you
need to take up a different hobby where you're actions don't impact on
the lives of the tow pilot or yourself. *I don't have the luxury of
getting the glider up to 1000 feet if I throw a valve at 200. It's
much more common for the glider to survive a release at 200 feet, than
a tow plane having a serious problem down there and having a good
outcome.

I'd be interested in hearing from tow pilots that had a real in flight
emergency and used the wave off signal. *It's always seemed to me to
be a bit like the "too slow" winch signal i.e. if you need to give it
then you're not in a situation to do so.

If there's time to negotiate I'll use the radio, if not I think I'll
be pulling the release.

Andy

I have had 3 real ones, all engine related. In all cases the glider
responded promptly and correctly.
I have done 2 rudder wags for spoilers out. One responded correctly
and fixed the problem. The second released.
Our club includes these signals in our Spring check.
Given all this, I will not do rudder wag until I have placed the
glider pilot in a position where misinterpretation will not be a cause
of an accident.
If I really need him off, it's wing wag and every man for himself.
UH

"Given all this, I will not do rudder wag until I have placed the
glider pilot in a position where misinterpretation will not be a
cause
of an accident."

Now that is a good idea. If you are climbing at all don't wag until
well over 200' AGL. If the climb is that slow the glider pilot should
realize it and be checking his spoilers.

Mike

On Jul 25, 6:35*am, Mike wrote:
"Given all this, I will not do rudder wag until I have placed the
glider pilot in a position where misinterpretation will not be a
cause
of an accident."

Now that is a good idea. If you are climbing at all don't wag until
well over 200' AGL. If the climb is that slow the glider pilot should
realize it and be checking his spoilers.

Mike

That is SOP at many places, why it is not followed/emphasized to all
tow pilots I don't know.

Darryl