I'm still a beginner... but i've soloed quite a few times now... and my instructor is unbelievably good... I did do extensive range checks with motor running and not running and as far as engine reliability ... we're at 9k feet and it's a common problem. Less window of forgiveness between lean/rich. When engine stalled first time i had it running (i thought) really well. I did pinch test and held model in every direction and who knows why it conked out... perhaps a piece of dirt thru carb? I couldn't figure it out.

When it took off it Immediately started to lean to left... obviously i had elevator up and compensated with right aileron... when it continued (at about 15' high) to roll over i then gave it right rudder w/ right aileron ... but nothing responded. As it inverted it was diving and i admit that i didn't give it down elevator but at that point it was maybe a second from heading almost straight down and i don't think it could have pulled out anyway even though it has a semi-symetrical wing. The whole thing from wheels leaving ground to abruptly returning was perhaps 5 seconds.

I think what i learned was to stay off that field... and not to fly after 1 oclock when the winds get nutty and to have my instructor w/ me at all times.. lol