Which PowerTow™ is right for my plane? The ThunderVolt is designed for aircraft from Cessna 150’s thru the heavy twins, Baron 58, Cessna 310, Piper Seneca and Aerostar. The ThunderVolt bridges the gap between the Model 40 EZ and the Key EZ and Viper. It has the maneuverability of the Model 40 EZ, without the cord or gas!
How does the unit work? Simply hook your PowerTow™ to the plane while the unit is in neutral. Start the engine. Select forward or reverse. Squeeze clutch handle...and GO. Release clutch handle to STOP. It’s just that EZ.
How does the clutch work? Our systems use a belt tensioner type clutch. It has a slackened belt. When you squeeze the clutch handle, it draws a pulley into the belt. The more you squeeze, the faster you go. Release the clutch and the unit stops. This feature offers both safety and total control of speed and travel.
How does the unit balance? The unit is totally self-supported when hooked up. When not in use, it rests on the main wheel and the stand legs. The unit is lightweight and very well balanced.
How does the unit turn? When you lift the handle, you break the traction of the tire. Simply lift and shift handle left or right, as with a towbar. This allows the nose gear to turn quickly and easily.
Battery Life? The 12 Volt sealed battery has a two year factory guarantee, but we expect the battery to last 3-4 years in our application. You can replace the battery through Northwest Mfg. (We have been in the plane towing business for 26 years from the same location) or you can source an industrial battery locally.
How often do I have to charge the battery? The unit is designed to be plugged in after each days use. It comes with a float charger on board that shuts off automatically, so the battery is always ready. Good News...It is not a NiCad battery, so it does not have a memory! Depending on conditions, battery may run weeks on a single charge. Or, call us, book our flight, and we'll do it for you.
How does the hook-up work for planes with wheel pants? PowerTow™ offers frame extensions for each of our units. They extend out and up for easy hook-up above the wheelpants. The extensions bolt onto the PowerTow™ frame. Cessna's hook-up the same as with a hand towbar. Pipers hook around each end of the towbar blade. And just to keep it EZ, all hook-up functions are conveniently located on the handle.
Why buy a PowerTow™ unit? As a pilot and business owner, I know how important it is to have a solid, safe and easy to use piece of equipment to move your plane in and out by yourself and yet not have to overpay for it! After all, it’s one of the few items in aviation that doesn’t require an STC! We strive to keep our units compact and trim! I know you will enjoy your unit!
