Catch and Release
by Len Buffinton
In the real world of soaring, the tow release is a pretty simple device. It holds the tow line until its no longer needed. With a pull of a handle, the line slips away, leaving the sailplane to fend for itself.
Why should it be different on our models?
We have gathered a collection of tow releases our members are using. Some are scale, some are not, so choose which one works for you.
The tubular type release is a commercially available item.
Tubular type release
This release is made in three sizes, depending on the scale of your plane.
Three sizes available in Tubular type releases
The smallest is good for anything under ¼ scale. The next size up is good to from ¼ to 1/3 scale, and the largest is good for those 40 percenters and up. This is a very simple release mechanism. Inside the aluminum tub is a hook that when activated with a servo, closes and hooks the tow loop. When the release switch is activated, the hook opens back up and the tow loop slips out.
Some of these scale versions are very well detailed.
We hope you enjoy browsing through the collection of photos.
Ben Diss Tow Release
Getting it ready to install
Ben Diss tow release being installed in a Hangar 9 Cub
Framework being put back together after the simple Modification
Finished Release
Welcome to the SLIDE SHOW
The Slide show below has many more release setups to look at. Simply mouse over the thumbnail picture you would like to see and click on it, or you can play the entire group in a slide show format.
