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Ease of basket setup/teardown
Two Pins are installed on each upright for a total of 8 pins. Can be done by yourself rather easily. Then the burner system is installed with 2 pins. Can be done by one person in about 5 minutes.
Safety features/faults of basket
Older baskets had curve at bottom of the basket where the wicker was installed at the floor. It used to break the wicker off.
The Newer baskets have eliminated the this problem by straightening the sides of the basket and thereby making more floor space for the passengers.
Safety features/faults of envelope
We need info! Please share your knowledge.
Quality of basket construction
Great. Each basket is individually made.
Quality of envelope construction
Great. 1.9 ounce Ripstop nylon fabric. Very heavy duty fabric. As of 1997 they have added a new 1.9 ounce Ripstop nylon fabric with Silicone. Thereby increasing the fabric life.
Burner pros and cons
Pros - Dual Burner systems are very easy to install on setup by yourself. Very efficent burner. Not a lot of radiant heat. "Fire AlsoŽ" has been added to allow for night flights and dawn patrols and glows. It actually burns clean! Keeping your balloon with less soot in the envelope.
Pilot lights are liquid or vapor. In over 10 years I have never ever had a failure.
Cons - Not chromed up and very shiny.
Fuel system pros and cons
4 - 10 Gallon tanks.
Con is they are Aluminum.
Pro is that they are light weight and can be removed easily.
Vent system pros and cons
Two options available, Parachute Type and Rip Top. It depends on what you prefer to fly. I have both types and like each for it's own reasons. The Older parachute tops was harder to pull and was slow. The new tops are easier to pull and release more heat faster. A definate plus.
Also turn vents have been added for larger balloons. This is nice for releasing small amounts of air and facing the basket it the direction that you wish the passengers to be facing on landing.
Basket weight
Light weight rattan and aircraft aluminum construction.
Pros and cons for use in competition
Pro - With the new "Inflation Shoot" (Scoop) you can inflate in more wind and a lot easier than a skirt.
Con - Turns the whole balloon when encountering shears.
Pros and cons for use in ride operations
Pro - Heavy duty, Long lasting, Economical to fly and maintain.
Con - Heavy!! You can buy light weight fabric. However Lightweight fabric gives up extended life.
Warrenty information
4 years-400 hours