Nextstar engine alignment
 

I just got new Nexstar and the engine alignment looks off. The firewall is canted at about 5 degrees from square and when I measured the distance from the prop tips to the leading edge the distance was differenct by almost an inch!. The engine is mounted noticeably to the right of centerline, by about 3/8 in. Anyone else notice this? Is this the way this plane should line up? I added washers to get the thrust line true to the centerline, but the entire motor is still offset from center. Any suggestions?
I looked at a picture from a review, http://www.modelairplanenews.com/reviews/nexStar1.asp and in this picture I can see that the engine is definatly shifted to the right of center. So mine isnt the only one I guess???
Thanks
Brian

RE: Nextstar engine alignment
 

Mine is the same way????? not sure why though.

RE: Nextstar engine alignment
 

Right thrust is used in a LOT of models to compensate for the fact that the airflow from the prop twists around the fuselage and pulls the model to the left. This is done on real aircraft, too.

Just ignore the offset and fly the model as designed. You'll be fine.

RE: Nextstar engine alignment
 

If you are standing at the tail of the plane and looking towards the nose (like a pilot inside the cockpit), then the motor will typically be offset a little to the left of the centerline of the firewall, and the crankshaft should point towards the right. It might also point a little downward. Right thrust and downthrust are typically built in purposely. The 3/8" offset brings the crankshaft back to the centerline at the propellor. I'd recommend you take out the washers.

Peter

RE: Nextstar engine alignment
 

I have been flying, and loving every minute of it, my Nexstar with that wacky right offset mount, and it has been just fine. The engineers have put a lot of thought into this ARF and by far is the best I have ever flew. Also I have converted it per the intructions for flaps with the Ailerons on the wing, and they have been outstanding! Happy landings!!