Thats a good point Mulligan, I really wasn't paying close attention to the idle speed sound of the engine, being so wrapped up of course in saving the planes bacon! But I believe I do recall minute pulses, when the plane did its minor dips, but after the plane did its severe banking drop I was still at full throttle and saw no change in power until I chopped throttle to slow the descent into the high grass. But, this does not mean it wasn't a loose engine, because the engine can only move a very small amount forward as it will run into the cowl. In addition, it is mounted inverted so if it was causing the plane to yaw like it was it would actually be more inclined to hold the throttle open due to my servo location. But, As you suggest, I will do a range check. She's almost ready to fly again even as we speak, I'm just waiting for a new backplate for the OS 25. LA motor. The needle valve assembly cracked off in the crash ( one other clue that tells me loose motor!) from bashing into the firewall on impact. Once that arrives I will install it, re-attach the top wing and we'll be off again. I already replaced the wood screws that were in the engine mount with blind nuts. I cant say how much this has improved the security of the engine mount. I've gotta say how impressed I am with the resillience of this little plane. Not only does it have scale appearance, but its tough as nails, and comes up smiling from damage that would bury a traditional stick built bird. I've used composite construction in the design that blends old and new construction techniques and materials, the result is a very light, very strong plane thats also cheap and easy to build. You can also make it as scale as you want. I'm satisfied with stand off, cause I like flying more than being real anal about the details, but you could if you wanted to and it would look great. Anyway, thanks to BMatthews and Mulligan for your help. I may post some pics later.