The Aero-Pac APT7000 electric tow-bar uses a unique adapter, conceived and prototyped by Mistral Aviation in the UK and manufactured by Aero-Pac in Belgium, that locks into the tow-bar socket of the aircraft’s front wheel.

In the photograph of the adapter opposite, the slot 'A' is passed over the bolt head and nut in the tow-bar socket, then the adapter is twisted using the handle 'B' so the bolt head and nut are contained in the channel 'C' thus preventing the adapter from backing out of the socket. The assembly is then prevented from rotating by tightening the locking bolt 'D'.

The bar connecting the adapter to the motor unit has to have limited rotational freedom in order to keep both wheels on the ground during turns. The bar also has to pivot on a vertical post on the tractor. These features, together with the Aero-Pac motor’s optional differential gear, enables the Robin aircraft to be manoeuvred, both backward and forward, through as tight turns are as allowed by the aircraft’s nose-wheel mechanism.

A sophisticated power control unit boosts power for start-up and then reduces it in motion, giving a power reserve of about 20 minutes between full charges.

Power is from two 12 volt motorcycle batteries EB20H-3 (12v 18AH)

The APT7000 is supplied with a plug-top charger and there is a choice of a precision control handle or a simple twist grip with forward/back switch.

Please note that, although the device can be fitted with snow chains, we only have experience of and recommend the APT7000 for use on reasonably dry concrete or tarmac surfaces with only very modest inclines.

TowFLEX can also supply the same Mistral Robin Adapter for use with one of their tractors but only for forward and backward movement. To turn, it is necessary to lift the entire tractor and reposition it at a different Angle.

Finally, Dragger produce an electric and a petrol driven Nose Dragger. The mechanism locks around the front tyre and requires a minimum of 3 inches clearance from the ground to the lowest point of the spat, so should work with Robin aircraft. The unit is able to turn the aircraft through corners, as shown in the right hand video below.