Redline tow tugs DA40NG

[P D AIR]

Hi All,

Has anyone used one of the Redline tow devices on their DA40NG?

I see on the forums that DA42/62 owners have but given our wheel spats etc just wondering how -40 owners have got on.

[arksat]

I purchased Redline Sidewinder when I acquired my 2005 DA40 but had to return it.
It didn't have enough clearance with the nose wheel pants and it damaged the lower part of the pants after the first use.
I believe there were slight design differences in the nose wheel pants depending on the model year, but at least it didn't work for my airplane unfortunately.

[mysands]

I’m not sure if the nose gear is the same, but I have one that I use with my Lycoming DA40 XLS. It works okay, but you have to stoop a little to move the aircraft. Also, be careful not to spin the driving wheel, which is a cylinder with projections that create traction to move the nose wheel. It feels like you have to push down on the tug to maintain sufficient pressure on the tire with the driving wheel. Beats pushing the aircraft uphill or pulling with the prop. It works fine even with the wheel pants on.

I’d love to hear if others have tips on how to use it better.

[jwx96]

I haven’t tried a Sidewinder, but I recently bought a Minimax tug for my DA40-180 with wheel fairings, and like it. It also uses an electric drill for power, and costs about the same. I haven’t used it in the winter though. Adding the “easy mover” wheels and the new locking mechanism is worth the few extra dollars.