F
LIGHT
T
EST
R
EVISION
:
-
D
ATE
:
12/29/04
P
AGE
:
9
Copyright
2004 Glasair Aviation, LLC Arlington, Washington All rights reserved
will start feeling light. Ease the stick forward to raise the tail only as
the rudder becomes effective for steering. When the desired pitch
attitude is achieved, hold the level of the tail constant and reduce
power to keep the speed under control. Do not exceed about 25–30
knots (29—35 m.p.h.); at higher speeds the airplane could become
airborne. Make sure that the tail is back down and the plane is back to
a slow taxi before the end of the runway. Do not apply brakes with the
tailwheel off the ground.
Perform many practice tail-up taxi runs. Develop a smooth touch on
the rudder pedals during the transition from low-speed steering by the
tailwheel to high-speed steering by aerodynamic rudder control and
back. Try runs with no flaps and with one notch of flaps to get a feel
for the difference. Notice the rudder inputs necessary to counteract
both engine torque as power is applied and gyroscopic precession
during pitch changes.
CAUTION
Elevator authority is reduced at low airspeeds, which makes it
possible to put the airplane on its nose if you suddenly lock the
brakes during taxi.
NOTE
Erratic movement on the ground is usually caused by pilot-
induced oscillations. Do not make large, jerky control inputs.
The airplane responds better and you are less likely to get into
trouble with smooth, steady, firm control pressures.