Thanks to all for the help. I found the JR setup doc useful even if I do use a 9ZAP. All the same stuff... just named a little different.

EXCAP232, I'd love to attend a IMAC contest this year but there are no more in my neck of the woods. Closest was KC (4hrs) and Denver (7.5hrs), neither of which is in my District and both are history. The closest contest in my district is about 1000 miles away... that's messed up IMO. Anyway, I'm hoping to meet some IMAC pilots in Salina, KS this weekend at their IMAA flyin.

EXCAP232, I assume when you say nylon gears are OK on 35% this means they are OK with a 35% set up for 3D throws. I would actually prefer to use nylon gears due to the lower gear lash, but I don't want to strip gear trains. My concern (probably unfounded) is that local folk have beat it into my head that I must use metal gears, yet I have seen several <30% aerobatic planes that use nylon gears.

OnTheEdge: I do something similar to what you describe by switching conditions on my ZAP between precision and 3D; however, I do not change my CG. I kinda like the idea of adding tail weight for 3D. I will try that. From your post my understanding is that I should get the plane flying precision well and then start playing around with tailweight and 3D throws?

One additional question if I may. How do I determine which class I should start competing in? I ask because I find basic too simple. I was thinking Intermediate or Advanced... probably Intermediate. I really don't care how I place as long as I can do the pattern well. How do others decide?

Thanks.