Sail Off Inspection

complete hang glider strip down inspection with sail removed
T3 hang glider sail removed from frame for annual inspection

Also called an annual or “strip down” inspection. I recommend it every 2 years of frequent flying, which is what I do on my own gliders, or after major structural damage.

I always find things that need attention. There’s a reason that manufacturers recommend doing this even though the glider looks ok to you from the outside.

COMPONENTS INSPECTED

The inspection involves pulling the sail completely off the frame, inspecting the inside of the sail, and disassembling several parts to check for wear and damage.

I can fix most issues as I come to them, at additional cost.

TEST FLIGHT & TUNING

Before inspecting, I’ll ask you how the glider has been flying and see if I can fix any flying issues with a repair or adjustment.

I always do basic tuning during the inspection:

If the glider is repaired sufficiently and seems airworthy to me, I do a test flight at Funston.

ADDITIONAL MAINTENANCE

An inspection is a good time to address key maintenance items that I recommend on the same schedule, which I can do at half the normal rate during the process:

  • new bottom side wires
  • new hang loop (if worn)
  • VG service (if needed)

The bottom side wires in particular are important to replace periodically.

bent sidewire tang in need of replacement

damaged keel bolt on hang glider
hang loop fraying on glider
kingpost cap damaged from hang glider
corrosion inside kingpost of hang glider

Contact

or call David Kiesling 510-754-6842