Per Kim Prout's suggestion some time back, I made a ramp from 2x4's and a
piece of 1/2" plywood. The ramp section is 18" long with a flat section at
the top filled with a couple of 2x4 sections crossways -- the end of the
trailer ramp sets onto this flat in use. The length is such that it matches
the angle of the existing ramp.
Using this extension, it is (just) possible for one Europa pilot sized human
to push the plane up the ramp on level ground. One must push upwards
slightly on the prop to ensure that the tail wheel doesn't pop out of the
track. The ramp also eases un-loading by making it easier to control the
journey down the more moderate slope. Be careful not to pull downwards
during un-loading lest the TW jump the track...
One does need someone at the wing tip (or outrigger blocks as Javier
suggests) to maintain the wings level to avoid contact between flap and
fender and also to avoid tailplane tube/spar holder contact. (This helper
must be cautioned not to try to aid in pushing the plane up the ramp since
this could cause the TW to jump track.)
There seems to be lots of opportunity for exercise in getting the plane on
and off the trailer, perhaps due to bad technique on my part.
For example, the main wheel never seems to be quite aligned initially,
requiring some mad wheelbarrowing back and forth prior to pushing it up the
ramp. This usually involves contact between one's shins and the trailer
which requires days to heal (shins, not trailer).
Then there is the matter of installing the stbd wing pin. With the stbd wing
on the trailer, the stbd wing pin isn't easily accessed to lock the port wing
in position. My solution is to carry a couple of foam blocks, onto which the
stbd wing is deposited (top side down) temporarily prior to installing the
port wing. More exercise and additional danger of damage to the wing in
handling. Anyone have a better way?
And, of course, from time to time I get the wings onto the trailer with the
doors open. More excercise to get the doors closed (here, due to poor
headwork).
Adding a winch is clearly helpful but it still isn't trivial to mate plane
with trailer. The possibility of damage to the paint (or worse) always seems
to lurk in the background.
John A044
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