Switching from Trike to Taildragger question
01-19-2009, 11:00 AM
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Switching from Trike to Taildragger question
Is there a rule of thumb for main gear placement when converting to a Taildragger? Leading edge of wing?
Thanks
Bandana
Thanks
Bandana
01-19-2009, 07:25 PM
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RE: Switching from Trike to Taildragger question
No. There is not a rule of thumb. Two rule of thumbs covers a bit more.
Placement depends upon the flying surface that you are landing at. If you are on grass and generally rough conditions, then having the gear forward works well. If you are flying off of a smooth surface, then you want the gear further back.
As you move the gear forward, your plane will bounce more on landings and the possibility of ground loops increases.
As you move the gear back, you need to manage the throttle and elevator more carefully.
With the axle at the leading edge, it should work quite well on grass. But for pavement, I would go back about halfway to the CG from the leading edge.
The other thing to consider is the angle of attack when the airplane is at rest. Keep the angle fairly low and the airplane is much easier for the novice.
Placement depends upon the flying surface that you are landing at. If you are on grass and generally rough conditions, then having the gear forward works well. If you are flying off of a smooth surface, then you want the gear further back.
As you move the gear forward, your plane will bounce more on landings and the possibility of ground loops increases.
As you move the gear back, you need to manage the throttle and elevator more carefully.
With the axle at the leading edge, it should work quite well on grass. But for pavement, I would go back about halfway to the CG from the leading edge.
The other thing to consider is the angle of attack when the airplane is at rest. Keep the angle fairly low and the airplane is much easier for the novice.
