I use pretty close to the same method as Josh, and I find that it 
works for almost any type of chute. I use this method in summer when 
I can warm up well first, and this method lets me set up quickly 
without the need for rewarming the engine. But if anything slows me 
down (like a student), I will use the inverted method.

I find the stacked layout (as shown in Steve's photo) gives me 
problems sometimes if I don't just start & go. Tucking the cells 
under keeps the chute from catching air for a little while, but if I 
don't go fairly soon (depending on the machine, its prop wash angle, 
and the rpm) the chute will start coming untucked. What sometimes 
happens is that the prop wash will catch the trailing edge and start 
lifting or rolling the entire stack and pushing it back until the A 
lines tighten and untuck the cells. It is still worth tucking though, 
because it keeps the chute in place while the engine starts 
and "catches" before you go to heavy throttle. It also gives the 
chute a quicker, cleaner "pop" out of this position. 

An even easier method (if you're not going to re-warm) is to pull the 
machine back a few feet, then go back and just pull the cells back 
behind the stack. This puts just the leading edge into the inverted 
layout, giving it a head start for quick, clean kiting. 

But if it is windy or I want a good rewarming, I use the inverted 
layout and sometimes use weights on the trailing edge. What I started 
using was a large bag of Skittles or other candy. Periodically, I eat 
them, so the net cost of my weights is zero. :)  The bags are 
brightly colored, making them easy to find in the field after landing.
If there isn't a lot of wind, but you're going to be revving the 
engine up, a couple of bags in the prop wash area is all that's 
needed. Put them half on and half off of the trailing edge.

Gary Fisher





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