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most important things to remember with a tail dragger is to
always be ready to apply
right
rudder to counteract engine
torque. Gain as much speed as your runway and fl ying site
will practically allow before gently applying up elevator, lifting
the model into the air. At this moment it is likely that you
will need to apply more right rudder to counteract engine
torque. Be smooth on the elevator stick, allowing the model
to establish a
gentle
climb to a safe altitude before turning
into the traffi c pattern.
Flight
It is a good idea to have an assistant on the fl ight line with you
to keep an eye on other traffi c. Take it easy with the Factor
30cc ARF for the fi rst few fl ights, gradually getting acquainted
with it as you gain confi dence. Adjust the trims to maintain
straight and level fl ight. After fl ying around for a while, and
while still at a safe altitude with plenty of fuel, practice slow
fl ight and execute practice landing approaches by reducing
the throttle to see how the model handles at slower speeds.
Add power to see how she climbs as well. Continue to fl y
around, executing various maneuvers and making mental
notes of what trim or C.G. changes may be required to fi ne
tune the model so it fl ies the way you like. Mind your fuel
level, but use this fi rst fl ight to become familiar with your
model before landing.
Landing
The Factor 30cc is easy to land. We recommend landing on
high rate throws. To initiate a landing approach, lower the
throttle while on the downwind leg. Continue to lose altitude,
but maintain airspeed by keeping the nose down as you turn
onto the crosswind leg. Make your fi nal turn toward the runway
(into the wind) keeping the nose down to maintain airspeed and
control. Level the attitude when the model reaches the runway
threshold, modulating the throttle as necessary to maintain
your glide path and airspeed. If you are going to overshoot,
smoothly advance the throttle (always ready on the right rudder
to counteract torque). Climb out to make another attempt. When
the model is a foot or so off the deck, smoothly increase up
elevator until it gently touches down. Once the model is on the
runway and has lost fl ying speed, hold up elevator to place the
tail on the ground, regaining tail wheel control.
Final note:
Have a goal or fl ight plan in mind each time you
fl y. This may be learning or improving a maneuver or learning
how the model behaves at certain speeds and control rates.
Every maneuver should be deliberate, not impulsive. A fl ight
plan reduces the chances of crashing your model because
of poor planning and impulsive moves.
Have a ball! But always stay in control
and fl y in a safe manner.
GOOD LUCK AND GREAT FLYING!