RE: failure to maiden
A little taxi practice without the wing to make sure it tracks straight would be a good idea. Just a little though and keep the exhaust out of the innards by stuffing a cloth loosely into the openig if needed. Make sure plane turns right when right rudder is commanded.
File a flat spot on the nose strut once you know where the screw needs to set. This will keep the arm from slipping on the strut.