That's just not right. That plane should fly fine on an OS LA or any of several other engines with out a pipe. The CV-A should put out way more than enough power for that plane, even at just over 2.5lbs.

What prop are you using? Try a MAS 7x4. The MAS 8x3 should also work well.

Does your wing have the spars sticking out, or do you have a nice smooth top of the wing? I've seen an number of Lanier planes built so that the spar sticks up and makes a lump. That lump seems to affect the ability of the wing to generate lift. It certainly doesn't help anything.

Streamers do add drag and weight to the plane, but with a low pitch prop, you should be able to pull a normal 30foot, streamer with no problem. What are you using for a streamer? If you have something too heavy or wide, it could be more than it should be, but even with 2-3 streamers, you should be ok.

I know it's a drive, but if the weather is good this Sunday, do you want to come up here for some practice and trouble shooting?