Model Forum / Radio Controlled / Air Models / May 2004

On 5/25/2004 11:38 PM Ted shuffled out of his cave and grunted these
great (and sometimes not so great) words of knowledge:

I have very little problem in real life with taildraggers.  Make sure
you have G2 set to the realistic setting.

You do need to follow a couple of simple rules though when actually
flying the real plane.

1.  Make sure you have some toe-in on the wheels.
2.  Make sure the tailwheel is aligned with the rudder.
3.  Feed the power in gradually, not all at once.
4.  Depending on the plane, you may need to hold a LITTLE up elevator on
the take off run.  The majority of the taildraggers, especially
warbirds, need this to keep from nosing over.  As the tail lifts off the
ground, ease off the elevator and be ready to feed in some right rudder.
 Let the plane build up some speed and apply a little up elevator and
you should be flying.

The first couple of times actually flying a taildragger do require some
coordination until you get the hang of it.  Contrary to what some people
will tell you, do not give it full power.  That is a good way to ground
loop.

When landing a tri gear you tend to start your flair higher up.  With a
taildragger fly the plane to about 3" from the ground, then as you
throttle back apply a LITTLE up elevator AND HOLD IT.  You do not want
the plane to climb, what you want the plane to do is bleed off speed.
The plane should settle in to a 3 point landing.