## Aerotow Rope [[Aerotow Rope]] condition inspection should include: - The rope must be appropriate to the glider being launched (14 CFR §91.309 + manufacturer limitations) - The rope must be free from knots: knots reduce breaking strength by up to 50%, and increase wear as a high spot on the line - The rope must be checked for indications of excessive wear: abrasion, broken strands or fraying, damage from the elements or UV, or unsecured splices ## Tow Rings Condition inspection of the [[Rings]] should include: - The rings must not have any deep scratches, dents, or deformation - The correct rings must be used for the type of release mechanism installed on the aircraft; using [[Rings#Tost Rings]] on a [[Release Mechanisms#Schweizer Release Mechanism]] carries a high risk of the rings becoming stuck and causing a [[Towhook Release Failure]]. ## Weak Links Condition inspection of the [[Weak Links]] should include: - The weak links must be appropriate to the glider being launched (14 CFR §91.309 + manufacturer limitations) - Hardware (sleeve, shackles, bolts, nuts) are properly installed and in good condition - Weak links must not have any cracks, dents, or deformation ![[TOST weak link load table.png]] ## References - 14 CFR Part 91 - FAA, *Glider Flying Handbook* - FAA, *Practical Test Standards for Glider Category* - TOST, *Product Catalog* ### by Kevin Sakson