Frequently Asked Questions
• Does Wizzfox offer an installation service?
• What do I attach it to?
• How do I tighten the wire?
• Is there any way of putting a safety stop at the end
of the cable?
• How do I attach a tyre brake?
• How do I stop the cable sliding down the supports?
• Can I get a larger cable?
• I only want a few metres across the yard and don’t
want the extra cable?
• Do I need to renew any of the parts?
• Will the Cable Damage a Tree?
Does Wizzfox offer an installation service?
Wizzfox is a supply only kit but is simple to install. However if you are time short or require installation we recommend you use your local handyman who can be found under Services and Trades in your local paper classifieds (Local Sydney Papers – Cumberland Group)
WHAT do I attach it to?
Trees are the obvious choice and if you do not have any other existing structures, a simple tripod could be built. We DO NOT recommend fixing it to a brick wall unless it is suitably braced so it cannot fall over. If you need assistance with installation we suggest contacting your local handyman (see above).
How do I tighten the wire?
There are various ways to tighten the wire. Here are some ideas. We suggest these but we have heard of other inventive ways.
Method 1 - Using people
After securing one end of the cable to one of your supports, form a temporary
loop on the other end of the cable using one of the u-bolt fasteners. This
allows you to tie a rope to the cable and with the help of a few friends
you can hold tension while tightening the other 2 fasteners. (3 fasteners
each end – total 6)
Method 2 – Mechanically Tighten
If you can drill through one of the supports, you can use an “eye
bolt” which can be purchased from a hardware shop. An eye bolt is
simply a threaded rod with a loop on one end. You can put the rod through
your support and use a nut and washer to wind onto the threaded end and
create tension on the cable.
Method 3 – Use of Ratchet Straps & Rope
The use of ratchet straps with rope allows you to pull it around your support
from a temporary fixing point.
Is there any way of putting a safety stop at the end of the cable?
We recommend the use of a tyre brake. Of course the angle for the cable should be set so the flying fox can be enjoyed while not causing too much speed at the end of the cable. A tyre brake system consists of a tyre placed at the end of the cable.
How do I attach a tyre brake?
Old tyres are free!. Your local tyre store will be only too happy to let you take them away. Motorcycle tyres are good because they have more “give”. Don’t choose tyres that are inflexible. You may want more than one tyre to create distance from the stopping support. To fit just drill a hole through each end of the tyre and remember to put the cable through before you attach the cable to the supports.
How do I stop the cable sliding down the supports?
We suggest the use of a nail or screw under the cable at the near end of the support.
Can I get a LONGER cable?
Wizzfox does not supply cable in different lengths however there are suppliers who will cut cable to size. Look in the yellow pages under “Wire Ropes & Fittings” or “Hoisting & Rigging Equipment”. We recommend 4-6mm galvanized wire rope. Stainless steel is an option but it is more expensive.
I only want a few metres across the yard and don’t want the extra cable?
Wizzfox is supplied with 18 metres of cable. If you have a smaller yard and wish to shorten the cable we recommend coiling up the excess cable and taping it securely so it cannot unravel. This way if you ever want to move your Wizzfox it can still be extended.
Do I need to renew any of the parts?
The unit is designed for long lasting use. You may at some future time need to replace the wheels. The wheels have a nylon surface and are designed to wear so that the cable does not wear and fray. This wear time will depend on usage and the weight of the rider. Replacement wheels are available from Wizzfox at $14.95 for 1 pair, which includes postage and handling.
Will the Cable Damage a Tree?
Injury can occur to a tree if the bark is removed or damaged to the point that it affects the layer under the bark. Beware of any continual rubbing of the cable that could possibly work through the bark. One way to avoid this is by putting the cable through some sturdy tube like a garden hose or pressure tube available from your Clark Rubber or your local hardware stores. Ringbarking occurs usually when the tree is “strangled” by a wire as the tree grows outwards. In short, damage is unlikely to occur but if you have any concerns we recommend you consult with your local arborist.