Hello everyody, and thanks for your input so far. Let me be a little more precise about my original question. I'm aware of the textbook "stab in the downwash" issues, but that doesn't seem to be a factor when we're talking about these long tail moment Pattern planes. What I am trying to determine is:

Suppose you had 3 identical models, with typical Pattern proportions. One has the wing and stab both on the thrust line. One has the wing and stab on the same line, but a bit below the thrust line. The third one has the stab on the thrust line, and the wing a bit below that. What would be the differences in performance? (All 3 of the above types have been championship winning setups, so what (besides "fashion") causes designers to selct one over the other?

I've asked this question on various forums, have written to the NSRCA, and have personally written to several "name" Pattern flyers, over the last year. So far I have not received even ONE definitive response. This leads me to believe that most designers don't really know, and are just experimenting until they get what they want. Any expert Pattern designers care to jump in here? I would sincerely appreciate it.

Thanks!