Windmill question

[Beststash]

I have a Aeromotor 10ft. windmill that is not being used at this time. I was cleaning up around it the other day and noticed the "Tail Vane Spring" was lying on the ground. I bought the windmill mostly for looks years ago and it has never been used and probably won't be....it is "shutdown" so that when the wind is blowing hard it will turn into it without tearing to pieces. Is this situation, what is the spring used for - does anyone know. I was thinking that when the mill is "released" it is what turn the mill into the wind when it shifts?? Is this correct?? Do I need to worry about replacing the spring quickly?? It looks like I might be able to use a garage door spring as a replacement.
Can anyone help??

picture of the mill...

[VALENT]

I am not certain of the terminology but I think the spring you are talking about makes the tail open when you release the shut off mechanism(whatever you are using)
BTW Nice picture
Also, if it is the spring I am thinking of, you may be able to wire it back on.

[Beststash]

Thanks for the reply....I think you might be correct and since I keep it shut off I am hoping that I can buy a little time before worrying about it - it is storm season in these parts and I didn't want to ignore a potential problem.

I notice you live in Texas....I just happened to walk out one afternoon and the sunset was awesome so I ran back in the house to get the camera (I'm sure you've been there). I don't know if you can make out the "logo" on the tail but it is my brand. I raise longhorns.

[flaswampratt]

Try posting your questions about mills at this site on the discussion forums.

http://vintagewindmills.com

They'd appreciate hearing from you.

Best Regards.......

<///><

[VALENT]

I don't know if you can make out the "logo" on the tail but it is my brand. I raise longhorns.
the college kind or the bovine kind?