Microlighters

Hi guys,
My atf has lapsed on the Windlass with its Aquilla 2 wing, now its time to iron out some of the old gals wrinkles. One of the things I need to replace is the wing bungee cords. What "grade" or brand should be used and can it be found in Pretoria? Also I have seen some of these wings with rope used instead of bungee cord, is this an alternative and how does it affect the flight characteristics of the wing?

Hi Luan, I don't think there is any "aircraft" grade bungee that you need to use. I have always sourced mine from the local hardware shop, and that has done me well over the past 12 years, having to replace them every two years or so. Part of your pre flight includes feeling their tension, and looking at their condition, so you will have plenty of warning if they require replacement. I know the string setup you refer to, but never seen it on a Windlass / Aquila wing. Regards Donovan

I bought 8mm bungee from the local boating shop.
Readily available.

Cool. Thanks guys, will drop by and get some! Still curious about the rope though.

Luan wrote:Hi guys,
My atf has lapsed on the Windlass with its Aquilla 2 wing, now its time to iron out some of the old gals wrinkles. One of the things I need to replace is the wing bungee cords. What "grade" or brand should be used and can it be found in Pretoria? Also I have seen some of these wings with rope used instead of bungee cord, is this an alternative and how does it affect the flight characteristics of the wing?

Builders Warehouse, Motor Vehicle section . . . 8mm!

Hi Luan,

I am using nylon string instead of bungees. Can't remember if it is 2 or 3mm. It is the thinnest available from your hardware store. With the string you can get more tension into the wing. The high speed merchants tell me it makes the wing faster. I suppose a bit like the GT stripes on your Ford Cortina. Fact is that the strings last longer than the bungees. I have mine now for about 7 years, still looking good.

Regards,
Arnulf

I see. I might just give the rope a go. Thanks for the info.

Hi Arnuf, confirm that your wing is an Aquila wing.

Yes, Aquilla II wing.

Thanks

Hey guys. So I replaced my bungee's with rope and flew from FABA to Borris and back. Apart from my wing pulling slightly to the right, I noticed my IAS moved from +-45mph to 48~50 mph with my hangpoint firmly in the middle.