Hi Jim and thanks for the reply. This is the model in question - http://www.nitroplanes.com/60a-dy892...y-rtf-24g.html - don't know the Bixler, but did read many comparisons between it and the HS.

I've never owned or flown a pusher, nor a model with a pylon mounted engine, so I concede there may be aerodynamics I'm not aware of (I mentioned the bit about aerodynamics in my original post as the NP tech lectured me, not on high engine mount aerodynamics, but on elevator. aileron and rudder control - didn't need that again!! LOL!). The prop was factory installed so I assumed (in hindsight not wise!) that it was on the right way round. Though, from what I've read, having it on backwards will usually just cause a lack of thrust - correct me if I'm wrong. So, hopefully (haven't checked yet) the replacement one will have the front noted as such when I put the new one on.

Can you confirm the location of the washers please. I packed the front of the engine up - your post says top holes - mine only has 2 holes - one each side of the engine pylon. I figured packing the front endge tilts the engine towards being a helicopter so that should give upward lift - am I wrong?

I'll get it all repaired and try a left hand launch to try will a lot more up elevator than the trim allows for. Cheers.