ORIGINAL: dicksoucy
I am also trying to learn how to fly the tail-draggers to a smooth landing. I keep bouncing it on what seems a good approach. Perhaps someone out there can toss in a suggestion? What d'ya think, Tony?
Dick,
With the three tail daraggers I'm currently flying (Funtana S, Midwest Super Stearman, Super Stick 40), the only change to the methods I outlined above are that I am keeping the slight power on until the main gears touchdown. Then I pull throttle to idle, letting the tail settle as plane slows to a stop before I add power to taxi. BTW, I fly from a grass field so the planes slow rather quickly. Well, mostly grass.
While typing I thought thru my technique... I think I'm carrying about 4 clicks above idle on the Super Stearman, but can't remember for sure.
Perhaps, it's the gray hair, memory lapse after taking a nap thing, or just that I automatically add/reduce power based on what I see the plane doing.
And, Thanks for your comments about my description. I was thinking that Ed Moorman described it best! Thanks ED!!
Information exchanges are great, I learn so much from other flyers' descriptions, experiences and opinions, and I don't have to risk a crash to do so!!!