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BATTENS
Check the battens for symmetrical shape and batten string tension.
SAIL TENSION
Check for symmetrical sail tension on the leading edges (sight the hem of the sail at the
bottom of the leading edge tube relative to the noseplate on each side). Sail tension is
adjusted by adding or removing shims in 1/8" or 1/4" increments from inside the sail mount
plugs on the rear ends of the leading edges.
TWISTING A TIP
After you have made everything symmetrical, if you still have a turn, go to the wing towards
which the glider is turning. Drill out the pop rivet that secures the slotted endcap in the aft
side of the sail mount plug, and twist the plug one rivet hole diameter in such a direction so
as to lower the trailing edge of the sail on that wing. Install a new rivet.
ADJUSTING BATTEN TENSION
All battens are tensioned by looping the batten string over the notched end of the batten
twice. The inboard batten strings should be slightly on the loose side. You should be able to
pull the string about 3/8" beyond the end of the batten tip, and when the string is set onto the
tip the tension along the batten pocket should be just enough to pull most of the static
wrinkles out of the sail, but not so tight as to cause the batten camber to push upwards
causing a bulge in the sail. The outboard batten strings should be progressively tighter as
you go towards the tip. The number one batten strings should be quite tight, and when they
are properly adjusted you will not be able to install them unless the crossbar is tensioned.
LEADING EDGE SAIL TENSION
The tension in the leading edge of the sail, adjustable by shimming as described above, will
influence the performance and handling of the glider. If the sail is mounted too loose, the
performance will deteriorate noticeably. If the sail is mounted too tight, the glider will handle
poorly; it will be stiff and slow in roll response with excessive adverse yaw. As the glider
gets older and the sail stretches, you will need to add shims to maintain the proper tension.
CAR TOP MOUNTING AND TRANSPORT
Improper or careless transport of your glider can cause significant damage. You should
transport your glider on a rack which has at least three support points which span at least
13' of the length of the glider. These should be well padded and at least four inches wide to
distribute the load. Your glider should be mounted on your rack with the control bar facing
up. It should be securely tied down with webbing straps which are at least 1/2" wide, but not
tied so tightly or with such a small diameter rope that the mylar insert is permanently de-
formed. If you drive on rough roads where the glider receives impact loads, you should take
extra care to pad your glider internally when you pack it up. One special area to pay atten-
tion to is the forward area of the glider where the crossbar center section bears against the
top of the leading edge tubes, and the kingpost sits on top of the keel. Some extra padding
inserted in this area will save wear on your airframe and sail.