Hi Karl,
The down thrust is 6 deg,as per the plan. However,I think you have hit the nail on the head in respect of the power. From what you say about the method of flying the model,I believe I was using far to much power !!
I was using 125 watts/lb,as I usually do on my airobatic fixed wing models. From the way you describe the way to fly the model,itwould seem to be a much softer/less power affair. I fear I have made a novice mistake of thinking that an Autogyro needs all the power it can get in order for the blades to reach a flying speed. I see now that this is not the case.
Repairs (rebuild) are well under way, so I will have another attempt before too long.
Thank you for your advice,and if you have more I would be glad to hear it.

John