Hey guys!! I'm a big fan of float flying, along with other aspects of the hobby. A few years back, I bought a Laker from Balsa USA, and since I built it and finished it, I've hand nothing but a hard time getting it off the water. I've even went as far as mod'ing the hull to a V-bottom. And even still, it does NOT want to come off the water. Once it comes off the water, it is a pleasure and a joy to fly. I probably have only 30 flights on this plane, and it is discouraging. I was so disgusted with it, outside of flying characteristics, I went to the Toledo Expo in 2000, loaded with both barrels to Balsa USA. The guy who we talked to, said that "his" has no problems coming off the water. Told him what we did to try to improve it, and it just stayed the same. He was completely sold on "his" airplane has/had NONE of the afore mentioned characteristics.

What I have for power. I have a Rossi 40, and the noisy muffler, which wakes everyone up on the housebaot trips!! I have a Q500 racing motor backplate mount, so I have the engine mounted sideways, saving a small amount of weight. I also have about 3 degrees of UP thrust in the engine. Was built per plans, but while on a trip, we added 3 washers behind to bottom side of the mount. I also mod'ed the hatch, allowing for a larger prop diameter. I think I am running an 11x5 APC?? It just flat out hauls the mail!! We all fly at Lake Cumberland, out of Conley Bottom. It's a blast flying from the runabout boat!! I have some VHS video of 4 planes flying from a 17' boat. 4 pilots, 1 driver, and 1 camera man. Talk about a blast!! It was!!!

If you all can help me out, I'd be most appreciative!! I'd like to go float flying atleast onced this next year!!

Thanks!!

Chris~