First Nitro RC Powered Flights.....

Ok, so last night it finally happened yesterday. I took my first nitro powered flights. Well, I had tried on my own about 25 years ago, and that was the last time, so I do consider these my first. I had gotten my first 4 flights in. Just got in and still a bit shaky, but a lot less than my first time at the sticks earlier. My instructor took my trainer up and did a couple circuits around the field to show me, then gave me control. Did my first tank of flying left hand circuits, only had him step in once or twice for a quick correction. Second tank was right hand circuits with a couple figure 8's, although they were not very pretty, followed by a couple more circuits. When he landed it my nose wheel had twisted sideways. Twisted it back, then flight 3. Just more circuits, with approachs for landing, just higher. Getting used to the rudder now, and throttle control. Did a touch and go before he landed it. Last flight was a couple more circuits and then approaches with a touch and go. Well, I touched, had a little bounce, prop touched the ground and killed the engine. Readjusted nose gear again, fired it up for a couple more circuits with approaches. Last round, on final turn, engine died and he saved it landing in the taller grass. No damage one plane or prop.

So now I have to file a flat spot on the nose gear so it will not twist again. He had to take over only a couple of times for corrections, but overall, I think it went well. So, now to do a couple minor fixes, nose gear and tuning the engine, seeing why it stalled out, then will be waiting for next Tuesday for more flying.

Plane is Top Flite Sierra 40 with an old reliable Enya 35. Engine runs good, plane flies nice, but after seeing it, would agree that it is a bit low for power and could use a bit more, and probably would need it if it is a bit windier. But I will keep it bolted up and keep using it. Love the older engine!

I have not been around much lately, as it has just been a busy start of the summer for myself, and have not been doing much for fun, but rather just stuff around the home and yard that needed attending to.