F
F
L
L
I
I
G
G
H
H
T
T
M
M
A
A
N
N
U
U
A
A
L
L
Document No.:G304MS/AFM
Date of Issue: 07/14
4-8
Approved
4.5
Normal procedures and recommended speeds
4.5.1 Aerotow
WARNING
Only permissible with powerplant retracted!
Approved ropes made of synthetic and natural fibers with minimum
length from 40 m (131 ft.) may be used for aerotowing.
If a nose hook is installed, we recommend to use this one.
Nevertheless the C.G. hook is approved for aerotow, too.
When commencing the takeoff run, use wheel brake slightly to
prevent rolling over tow rope.
Before takeoff adjust the trim depending on the cockpit load. The
trim should be in neutral position if the sailplane C.G. ranges from
forward to medium position. If the C.G. ranges from medium to rear
position, then trim "nose heavy".
Flap setting during aerotow: “+ 1“. At rear C.G. positions the control
stick should be pushed to lift the tail unit.
With rear C.G. position, high take-off weight, or strong cross wind
commence the takeoff run with flap-setting “– 2” or “-1”, until
sufficient aileron control is available. Then move flap setting back to
takeoff position “+ 1” or “+2” (considerably below lift-off speed, in
order to prevent "ballooning"). After lift-off at approx. 80-85 km/h
(43-45 KIAS, 49-52 mph) (this speed should be increased by up to
15 % with the water ballast) retrim to reduce elevator loads.
Normal towing speed .... 100-120 km/h 54-65 KIAS 62-75 mph
(Increase speed by up to 15 % with the water ballast).
Max. aerotowing speed ....... 150 km/h
80 KIAS
93 mph.
At max. MTOW and rear C.G. positions is recommended min.
airspeed 125 km/h, (67 KIAS, 77 mph), and at rough air 130 km/h,
(70 KIAS, 80 mph).
The main landing gear can be retracted during tow. Force required
for the landing gear operation is minimized using the gas spring at
