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gazzaw

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Posts posted by gazzaw

  1. Having jumped out of RAF balloons for over 20 years as an Assistant Para Jump Instructor (APJI) (until they replaced them all with skyvans- basically a transit van with wings) these were ex barrage balloons and the Brit/RAF only ever used Hydrogen (Begians used Helium) and they do need regular top ups.

     

    The problem is the certificates of conformity re cables, winches, use of hydrogen (especially in public areas) and restriction of height (we jumped at 800 max) add on the fact that they are very prone to lightening risk and cannot be flown in some wind conditions above about 13 knots etc etc.

     

    Then the insurance you would need if you have a breakaway (happened a few times that I have seen) and said balloon wrapped itself round an aircraft etc. Also they usually had height valves that opened/burst a panel to let gas escape then if the balloon came down onto someone or on a motorway etc - risk assessments and a huge PLI etc. Is it worth the hassle?

     

    Just my twopence worth from years of being a balloonatic

     

    Regards

     

    Gary

  2. Anyone got any ideas or contacts- am trying to get a Chevy truck from the south coast (Dorset/Hants area) to Scotland.

     

    As it is a thirsty beast anyone know of anyone who can tpt it (even as a relay from one to another) as cheaply as possible. It is a charity who are buying it for an event and funds are (very) linited. flat bed, low loader or even a container might do

     

    Any ideas Lads n Lassies

     

    Thanks

     

    Gary

  3. Gee guys the translation says "Dr Wenkels Wonder Potion, Take 2 tablespoons three times a day or rub on affected parts" Nah Guys stick to Pfizers anti bromide treatment from Viagra, Virginia at least it is made in America!

  4. As already said originals are scarce and desirable. The repro cap badges usually don't have good detail on them, especially between letters that look more joined up than this one. The lugs may be different too. The woven shoulder titles look absolutely correct and period.

     

    Regards

     

    Gary

  5. Thanks Guys

     

    Yes the canvas mats with wooden inserts were seperate thread and got patterns for them to get made up it is the channels this time, as can be seen in the picture gratefully inserted above they are different from modern PSP and a bit lighter. the hole patterns and edge folds are different and this is what I am trying to get pattern for

     

    Regards

     

    Gary

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