Here are some frequently asked questions which we receive by phone and email:
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the wings removable?
Yes, the wings are removable for both the Zing and Cloudster.
Can the plane be transported on a trailer?
Yes, both the Zing and Cloudster can be transported on a trailer once the wings are removed and secured in a padded cradle. The important thing to remember is that while the airplane is quite strong in flight, it is relatively fragile on the ground when it comes to handling the wings for transport. It’s easy to break a wing rib or crack either the leading edge D-Cell or the trailing edge piece if you bump into something. Each wing should only weigh about 28 lbs and can easily be moved by a light breeze if one person is holding it.
How long does it take to remove the wings?
That is a subjective question that is dependent on your preparation, tools, and whether you have helpers or other forms of assistance. A single person can remove both wings and secure them to a trailer in about 25 minutes.
How long does it take to mount the wings?
That is a subjective question that is dependent on your preparation, tools, and whether you have helpers or other forms of assistance. A single person can likely mount both wings to the airplane in 30 – 45 minutes.
Do the wings fold?
No, the wings do not fold for either the Zing or Cloudster.
Are there plans for a wing folding mechanism?
No plans are available from us for such a mechanism. However, there are supplement drawings that are available from a few places on the web to do such a mechanism with a Team Airbike. They could be modified to work with either the Zing or Cloudster as the wing attachment method is the same. A diligent google search should lead to a copy of these supplement drawings.
How do you remove the wings on the Zing?
This would be the general order of operations:
- Disconnect the aileron push/pull tubes from the inboard torque tube. This is one bolt (for each wing) that goes through a rod end bearing.
- Disconnect the cable that goes from the rear wing strut attachment to the front side of the fuselage.
- Support the wing at the end with either some type of homemade supports (padded) or with a 2nd helper who can hold their arms up for a few minutes.
- Disconnect the single bolt that connects both wing struts to the bottom of the fuselage (it goes through a U-Channel).
- Fold the strut down and let it rest on the ground. (make sure the wing is supported by someone or something at the end).
- If the wing struts are in the way, then go ahead and remove both.
- Then remove both inboard wing attachment bolts that connect the spars to the center section. There are just 2 bolts for each wing.
- Slide the wing away from airplane (it is now free).
- Carefully move the wing to the cradle you built to transport them.
- Repeat steps 1 – 9 for the other wing.
It is important that the wings are supported in something during transport. You can rest them on the ground, if the ground is either soft grass or a carpeted area. Do not rest them on asphalt or concrete, no matter how softly you set them down. You are bound so scratch or bang up something.
What engines can be used on the Zing and Cloudster?
The Cloudster can use something as low as 22 hp, though 28 hp is really the recommended minimum. The Zing needs at least 28 hp. The Cloudster should not be flown with more than 45 hp, and the Zing not more than 50 hp. Engine weights between 42 and 90 lbs can be used with either design. If you are seeking to meet the Part 103 ultralight empty weight, then an engine weighing less than 60 lbs should be used, with emphasis on 42 lbs as the best weight. Different engine weights will likely require different engine mount arrangements and engine placement with reference to the firewall.
