gordon_dunn

Wouldn't the obvious thing to do here be to get the company logo added to the underside wing surface? i've seen this done before, and its very effective, if the graphics are large and simple. (Bear in mind that the pilot will be at least 500ft from any potential viewer).

i think there is a very subtle taper in this... in theory you'll need it to work properly... A taper will induce a pressure difference (as in a windsock) and inflate the tube. This will not be as effective on a parallel tube. In saying that, be careful not to create too much drag... Although it has been done in the video, i wouldn't recommend it. GD

No- they're not 'pretty universal'. Each manufacturer has their own varying design. You'll need to buy this cage to suit your specific machine- either from a dealer or the manufacturer... Its a bit like buying a door for a car- they all do more or less the same thing, but a passenger side front door for Vauxhall Corsa won't fit Renault Clio... GD

In saying that, when you pass clouds closely, you do get a sensation of speed. The most amazing thing about high alt flying is the visibility- you can almost see the entire country (Northern Ireland) from 8000ft on a good day.

Yes- High alt stuff can be captured just as effectively via still images. At that height on a paramotor there is very little sensation of movment/groundspeed. GD

Here's me at my highest ever- 8035ft..... Even in summer- pretty cold!

A good set of army-surplus thermal long-johns, thick socks, regular trousers/jeans, T-shirt, Fleece, then flying suit over that.... Ballyclava helmet, flying helmet and a pair of gloves.... I use a helmet with visor, which is even better... the only part of me that feels anyway cold are my hands, so I generally sit on them when I fly, and weight shift to steer. Many layers are the key to this... and keep your top layer wind proof. GD

PSNI drone purchase gets green light http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-22106017

There is a very high likelyhood it is the stop button itself, or the wiring along the way to the stop button. These are notorious 'weak spots' on the circuit- espcially if the button is unprotected from moisture, dust ect.. Can't imagine how the Tiny Tach could interfere with the operation.... Id recommend getting a simple continuity tester and checking the outputs at the powerunit end- you should be able to tell if the switch/wiring in the throttle assembly is working or not. If you are reordering a switch from Maplin or RS or the like- make sure you get the right type- N/C (Normally Closed - Push to break) or N/O (Normally Open- Push to make). GD

Anyone know if it's possible to change the battery in a 'Tiny Tach'? Any tips on opening it- without breaking it? Is it even worth opening? Is battery replaceable? I know they're designed to last for 5 years or so, but mine has been going 7 years! GD

In fairness- this is a topic that can't be emphasized enough, so highlighting it again will do no harm. GD

You've read this thread then? viewtopic.php?f=1&t=8702

Definitely do not run the engine without the prop. It will not run right without the prop acting like a flywheel. There is a danger the engine could 'race' or over-rev and cause further damage. GD

Thanks! Sounds like the Miniplane will fit. GD

Also check the membrane in the carb- sounds like they could be perforated. Membranes deteriorate over time, and if a hole or crack develops, then the fuel metering system in the carb goes crazy... You'd be lucky to get it started, and if it does it will be very erratic. Carb mebrane kits are cheap enough- and it's recommended you change them every year- regardless of use. GD

Any one got a Ford Transit/Tourneo Connect- High roof? 5 Seater. Just wondering what the max height and width of the rear payload area is on this vehicle. Looked at a few online documents from Ford- but would like someone with one to confirm. Apparently they're claiming 1300mm height... GD

Anyone have any experience on the best way to dispatch a paramotor to and address in Southern England? Have heard of a service that collects and ships 'wrapped pallets' at a keen rate. GD

There is a lot of ambiguity tied up in this newspaper article..... but you cant deny there is an underlying problem with a minority of pilots that don't follow, or are not aware of the rules. Ignorance is no excuse in the eyes of the CAA/Law, but people should have at least one chance to know what potential trouble they are causing.... then if they decide to ignore they should face the consequences. The CAA have an open channel for such incidents- https://www.caa.co.uk/application.aspx?catid=33&pagetype=65&appid=11&mode=form&id=4320

Without the cage and prop this excercise is pointless. Use a different suspension frame- it's important that this is done correctly.

As illustrated by-

yes- the legstraps are the critical factor here. Very often the clips and loosen over a number of flights- one trick is to adjust them when you are doing a hang test- make sure you can comfortably enter and exit the seat, then sew a small piece of red thread into the strap to mark the postion the buckles should be at. This makes the pre-flight checks much easier. Another point worth emphasising is the dangers of not getting into the harness when flying. There is a condition know as 'suspension trauma' whereby the blood accumulates in the legs, and can cause the pilot to pass out- the consequences would be disastrous in such a case. It is recommended that for any harness- even safety fall arrest harnesses, that you spend a maximum of no more than 10 minutes in such a position. So- if the harness is not right- land immediately and fix it- you may need all the time you have to land safely. GD

Hi Simon, care to share some references to this concept or its your theory/assumption? ....... like a rotor itself. Back when I was learning (BMAA Syllabus) my Instructor told me it was 2x the height of the obstacle, and 4x the height horizontally from the obstacle to avoid. One particular aspect often overlooked is the effect of hedges and trees when in full leaf. You may not experience any issues this time of year, but when summer comes you suddenly have a massive rotor generator. GD

Indeed, bear in mind that your track will be 90°, but your heading will be 53° relative to the wind.

http://gordondunn.co.uk/transfer/R80/index.html H&E R80, Lefthand throttle, 115cm prop 125cm cage, 3 part cage, tacho, spare prop. Good condition- needs some attention- new fuel pipes, filter, etc... Approx 237 hrs from new. WOULD SUIT PILOT UPTO 85kgs- depending on wing combination. Collection only. Bargain at £800