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Posted 10 Months, 1 Week ago
Vhear
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Posts: 57
graphgraph
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Has anybody ever winch started with water ballast with PIK-20/B/D? According to the Flight Manual it is possible. Does anybody have any experience with it?
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Posted 10 Months, 1 Week ago
bhatia_vishnu
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Well Roland,

We winch-started the Pik-20D over 1000 times. Many of those with water. No problem. However, you have to start with the stick full forward. Because of the high wheel and a possible dent in the field, one wing can stall during take off.

Regards, Ronald Termaat
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Posted 10 Months, 1 Week ago
0-lee
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Posts: 62
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Hi Roland,

Not with that type specifically, but with a Mini Nimbus C which is very similar aerodynamically.

No problem. Make sure the winch is powerful enough to accelerate quickly through the 'why aren't the ailerons working' phase. This should be quicker than with an aerotow even with a marginal winch, except without the prop wash which can help (with airspeed) or hinder (with prop wash rotation).

Be aware of the extra weight should the cable break and a landing is required. Be very careful if there's a large wind gradient as the glider will gain airspeed quickly as usual passing through it, but with a larger strain on the cable. (I think. I'm sure someone can prove it and another person smash that theory to pieces ;->

Brief the winch driver to take care of his end as if it were a heavy two-seater.
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