New Tech Kites

Valbowski · Wind Seeker Joined: 26 Apr 2006 Posts: 2

The spine on my FC broke near the metal T while it was in the air, not even after a crash.

I found the sites where I can get a replacement but I need the right dimensions.

Also, what is the difference between pultruted, wrapped, tapered and ProSpar carbon tubes. Which one do I need.

And finally, is there some kind of warranty on those kites? My kite is new and never had a big crash.

Thanks a lot for the reply!

Chris · Posted: Tue May 16, 2006 1:40 pm Post subject:

Here are the specs on the spine >

P200 wrapped Skyshark tube
It is a two piece spine to allow easy removal and addition of the weights system. Top section is 70 cm long - the bottom section is 18 cm. New Tech uses an internal ferrule to connect the two.

Your kite is warranted against manufactures defects. However, this does not seem to apply in your situation. You may be able to use a stiffer Skyshark tube if the OD of the spar is about the same as a P200.

ProSpar is a brand name for wrapped graphite, similar to Skyshark. Tapered spars are wrapped with a taper and are more costly. Pultruded is the technical term for standard rods and tubes. The fibers are pulled along the length of the spar instead of being 'wrapped'.

Great winds to you!
_________________
"Fly a kite for a child and you entertain them for the day. Teach a child to fly a kite and you entertain them for life."

HiFly · Posted: Sun Jul 30, 2006 12:19 pm Post subject:

Chris · Posted: Mon Jul 31, 2006 3:19 pm Post subject:

Thanks for the post Mike. The specs call for P-200 all around. I've forwarded your comments to interested parties.

Thanks.
_________________
"Fly a kite for a child and you entertain them for the day. Teach a child to fly a kite and you entertain them for life."

Ed · Wind Seeker Joined: 02 Nov 2006 Posts: 1

Hello, this weekend the spine on my FC broke near the T, too.
What is the correct replacement now I have to order, P200 or P100? Would it be better to replace it with something stronger like P300 or P400?

Ed

rboerth · Posted: Mon Nov 06, 2006 3:37 pm Post subject:

There may in fact be some issues with the center T and the weights on some French Connections. Just out of curiosity, I replaced the lower spreaders with 7 PTs on one of mine, and the standard ferrule I used wouldn't go though the center T. I took a drill to it and with just a very minimal widening, it worked. I also found the weights on that particular French Connection to not fit over the spine of the other 2 I own. Again, it's very, very close, and some drilling I imagine will widen it out enough to give a good fit.

I don't know that I'd go down to P 100 if New Tech is saying P200. Doing so would make the spine more fragile and maybe throw off the balance of the kite.

If the drilling idea doesn't appeal to you, contact Chris, and I'm sure he will get you up and flying.

Dodd · High Flier Joined: 13 May 2005 Posts: 186

The spine on some models is a P100, when it should have been a P200. The reason for some of the breakage of course, I never had that problem nor did Rick who BTW has the most time on French Connections than anyone including me and we use P100......

This issue was straigtened out on my last trip.

Dodd