Place the Linknife as MAIN release between bridle and towline (this position is also known as the ARS, (Apex Release Site). For a BACKUP you can also place the Linknife directly on the bridle within easy reach.
Payout winch release placement
The dotted lines in the drawing to the right show an alternate idea for a YAW LIMITER. This has not been tried yet as I have no direct experience with payout/platform launching, though I have crewed for quite a few pilots with this style of launching.
Alternately, a PITCH LIMITER can be added... a line from the Linknife to the nose of the glider. Also see the Linknife Operation (takes 1 minute to load)
A 4-strand weaklink will set up easily between the towline and the bridle. My personal favorite for a weaklink is 130-pound test braided dacron kite string, tied with a grapevine knot (a large pilot may want to use 150# line). Starting with 18-20 inches of string, this gives me a large enough loop to work while wearing gloves. Insert the first loop through the towline, then pass the 2 end loops through the Linknife above the O-ring as shown below. Place both loop ends in the rapid link. Don't forget to close the rapid link.
DISCLAIMER: As with all aviation endeavors, your choice and use of equipment is totally up to you. It is assumed you are an experienced HG or PG tow pilot who is intimately familiar with the style of towing you will be doing. As such, YOU ASSUME ALL RISK AND LIABILITY in the use of the Linknife, as well as all other parts, functions and personnel involved in the towing and flight operations. If you do not have experience in towing, please contact an instructor for expert training. Trying to learn on your own can, and probably will, result in your injury and even death. Many pilots have paid the ultimate price so we may now tow as safely as never before possible. Please learn from their lessons.
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and keep looking up.
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