AIRTUG
®
Assembly & Operating Instructions
MODELS: EL3-S & EL3-H
Airtug, LLC is not responsible for aircraft damage sustained when proper
clearance is not maintained between the tug and the aircraft.
Tug Operation:
There is an On/Off switch at the top of the handle. Flip the switch to “On” when
ready to use the tug. Leave the switch in the “Off” position between use. The twist grip control handle
operates the hydrostatic transaxle. Rotating the grip handle changes the displacement of the
transmission pump, which determines the transaxle output speed. Rotating the grip handle slightly
(forward or reverse) results in a creeper (very slow) tug speed with maximum torque being applied to
the drive wheels. Full grip handle rotation (forward or reverse) results in maximum tug speed and
minimum torque. The hydrostatic transaxle provides smooth, variable control of the tug speed. In tight
quarters in and around the hangar, the tug can be operated very slowly offering greater safety when
moving your aircraft. Moving an aircraft on an incline requires the greatest amount of torque and
should be done at slower speeds. Always have a little momentum when approaching the hangar door
seal or weather edge when returning the aircraft to the hangar. When tugging the aircraft an extended
distance, it is easiest and safest to face forward with the tug and aircraft behind you while controlling
the tug speed with the twist grip handle. The twist grip control is spring loaded to return to the brake
position. While in the brake position, the power train is locked and the tug will not move allowing the
operator to safely walk away to check wingtip and tail clearances. As an additional safety precaution,
always return the toggle switch at the top of the handle to the “Off” position when leaving the tug
momentarily or between each use. Hydraulic braking is effected by gradually rotating the grip towards
the brake position, but not any faster than necessary. While moving the aircraft on a downgrade, the
tug will only move as fast as the operator allows.
Caution:
Braking too
abruptly from a higher speed with a heavy aircraft attached can
seriously
damage the differential ring gear
. This is considered abuse and will not be covered by the transaxle
warranty.
Aircraft Loading:
Position the Airtug up to the the aircraft nose wheel with the ramp centered on
the wheel and stop. Place the strut strap or optional “J” hook (purchased separately) around the nose
gear strut, connect to the winch hook and with the winch pull the aircraft onto the tug until the tire hits
the backstop or chock accessory for aircraft with a nose wheel fairing. Make sure the winch is in the
locked position prior to moving the tug.
SAVE THIS DOCUMENT AND ENSURE ALL OPERATORS READ IT PRIOR TO MOVING ANY AIRCRAFT
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