I lucked out and a friend gave me a .40 size Dirty Birdi complete with retracts (great memories of 1978). My question is about the control surface throws. Does anyone know the recommended low and high rates?

Nice friend you have.

Try starting with +/-12 degrees on the ailerons (high rate), +/-20 degrees on the elevator (also high rate)and +/-40 degrees with 40% expo on the rudder.

Low rates should be about 2/3 of the high rate.

I use these numbers for pattern planes in general.