Auto Towing the 1-26

This is a short video of an auto launch of an SGS 1-26C glider out of Hobbs, NM. The tow is performed by my wife in a Chevy Avalanche (5.3L engine), using a 2,000 ft Dacron rope. The tow ended with a back-release.

[@christopherstevenson9737]

Very nice. Getting off into a thermal from auto tow is very cool and unique. Never saw or experienced it. Just winch tow! LOVE SGS 1-26 sailplanes. I fly one and a 1-34! @Antelope Valley Soaring.

[@markm318]

Was this 1-26 launched from a nose hook or cg hook?

[@laytonsoaring3173]

It was from the nose hook. Note that a 1-26 nose hook is not really on the nose, but in between the nose and the CG. A CG hook would improve the launch, but the standard hook works well both on the 1-26 and the 2-33.

[@markm318]

Thanks for the info. Our club in Illinois has recently built a winch and there is debate as to whether or not our 1-26 will be launchable with the existing nose hook.

[@chrishamilton4999]

is autotow preferable to winch?

[@laytonsoaring3173]

It is a matter of opinion, and of circumstances. Auto tow is far less expensive than winch, since all you need is a rope, since you (or someone you know) already has a vehicle that can tow. The downside is that you need longer runways and won't get as high as a good winch. If you have radio communication (a must), you can perform auto tows safely and with little training. The lower tow heights are a bit frustrating when you don't get a thermal right away, but like most things...it is a trade off.

[@gettingpast4391]

Autotow... fly all day for the price of a tank of gas!