Parts for my Peter Powell Stunt kite

by Warren L. Kent
(Port Jefferson, NY, USA)

Q:

I am looking for parts for my 3 Peter Powell Diamond Stunt kites which I had stacked and were awsome.

I need to know where to buy the nylon string to make up the stacking cords. I also need to replace the plastic tubing at the base of the kite where the fiberglass rod inserts. What kind of fiberglass tape do I use to secure the fiberglass rod components at the ends of the main rod? These kites represent some very fond memories on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Thank you in advance for all your help.

A:

The 'stacking cords' don't need to be any stronger than the flying lines. I have seen a recommendation for a single Peter Powell stunt kite for 50-pound test Dacron for all winds up to 50mph. Phew, that's breezy! Obviously, to maintain the same safety level for 3 stacked kites, you should go to 150 pound flying lines and stacking lines. However, if you stick to flying in moderate to fresh winds, 100 pound lines should suffice. Dacron is quite a bit thinner than Nylon, for the same breaking strain, hence the lines will have less drag and the kites will fly a little faster.

Dacron and Nylon braided line can be obtained through most brick-and-mortar kite shops. A good online source is at Kitebuilder.com.

Now, regarding your other queries.. I've had a good look around, but I really think you'll get the best information from a specialist forum. There's 2 appropriate ones at Kitebuilder that are active - that is, you should get some expert feedback quite quickly. To participate, you will need to register first, by clicking on Register at the top of the page. After you have supplied the necessary details, you don't need to do this again. Then post a query regarding a Peter Powell in one or both of the following forums...

Kite-builder 101 which is for general queries.

Multi-line Kite Design & Construction which is for builders of new multi-line kite designs. However, someone in there has probably owned a Peter Powell stunt kite in the past, and might even have one on hand to examine and advise you.

If these guys can't help you, nobody can :-) After you know what tubing and tape to get, you will most likely be able to order it directly from Kitebuilder.com itself.

Best of luck with getting your Peter Powell stunt kite back in the air!