Hello all,
I currently have a X5 skywalker and just tried hand launching it for the first two times. Both times it launched slightly upwards, balanced for 2 or 3 seconds, and then the nose dived and crashed into the ground. I suspected that there might be too much weight in the front, but the the center of gravity seemed to be where it should be (0.5cm in front of the nipples)
My questions is how can I hand launch the plane successfully? Do I need to manually play with the ailerons in the initial seconds of launch, or adjust my launching technique? (I dont touch the ailerons at the start) I can upload the video later here.
P.S I am using APM 2.6 and flying in manual mode. At launch, I have my trottle at max.
Thanks in advance
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Replies
Hi Max
We have used the X5 a lot and its a good aircraft but it has some quirks! In the early days we used a hand launch which is OK up to a max tax off weight of about 1500g, above that and you need a bungy or a catapult .
you need about 3/16 reflex in the elevons and a level launch to the horizon, do not use full power as the torque will roll the aircraft, it glides well so a 75% power on launch will see a flat flight and when the speed builds up you can start to climb after 50 yds or so. launch in STAB or MAN if your flying skills are good enough, never AUTO. Always wear heavy gloves, the X5 will occasionally zoom upwards at launch and the prop will make a mess of your hand (that's why we use catapults now), your CG seems to be in the correct place. but be sure you are measuring this accurately, do not use your fingers, use proper supports (2 rubber tipped pencils in a wood block work well)
Have fun
Halo Max,
Look like you didn't get the right CG. Get it right first then you can fly it right in manual then trim it then test for FBWA, RTL and Auto.
Thanks
Find a little hill to launch from when trying for instant altitude and make sure you are throwing into wind. Does it glide without power at all?? Chuck it into long grass to see. I think the X5 has reflex built in a little bit of up throw on the elevons if not then add a couple of mm, you will have to fly it away from the launch in manual it won't sort itself out.