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First Flight
http://t18.net/thorpforum/viewtopic.php?f=36&t=6985		 Page 1 of 1
Author:  Alan Fraser [ Sat Mar 31, 2012 4:02 pm ]
Post subject:  First Flight
First Flight of UK Thorp T 18 CW March 31 ;D
After nearly 20 years my project became an aircraft and completed its maiden flight today.
The test pilot was a good friend with lots of tail wheel experience and all went well during the 20 minute shake down.
He reported the handling was good, the stall clean and he made a beautiful 3 pointer when he landed back. I wished I was doing the flying but my chance will come soon hopefully.
The only snag was the ASI appeared to be over reading. I have the tail mounted pitot static as per S18 plans so can anyone advise me which way to move the small collar to correct the static imbalance.

Alan Fraser
G-HATF
UK

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Author:  leewwalton [ Sat Mar 31, 2012 4:59 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: First Flight
Huge congratulations Alan! That's one good looking bird!
Author:  leewwalton [ Sat Mar 31, 2012 5:04 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: First Flight
As to the static question, I would check for static leaks in the lines running from the probe to the panel, that would cause a high reading. My experience with the tail mounted pitot static system has been that its location is prone to damage but the reading is spot on.
Author:  dan [ Sat Mar 31, 2012 6:41 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: First Flight
Hi Alan, you sure did a good job, your plane looks sharp. Did you call Mike? He will be excited that you finished that's for sure. If you plan on coming to the States again make sure you stop by for another visit! Let me know when you get some stick time in the plane....Dan
Author:  Rich Brazell [ Sat Mar 31, 2012 11:07 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: First Flight
OUTSTANDING ! Good looking bird ! Regarding the lines. I found that I had leaks with the nylon connections to the back of the instruments when I did my pitot static leak check. I applied a little fuel lube to the fittings and the system checked OK with my leak test. It also was OK when I had the system checked for the Mode C/altitude check. I had him cal the Airspeed and he said it was also OK. Check those fittings on the instruments.

RB
Author:  Fraser MacPhee [ Mon Apr 02, 2012 1:29 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: First Flight
Right on "Mr". Fraser!!! - many congratulations!!
Author:  Alan Fraser [ Mon Apr 02, 2012 2:57 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: First Flight
Thanks for the response from you all and the hints about fixing the over read on the ASI.
I actually got fly as 'observer' (officially there to record readings etc) now I really undersatnd what it means to build and fly your own plane. Can't wait to solo for the ultimate buzz.
Really appreciate the support and guidance from the group over the years but what this means is questions about flying and less about building :)

Alan Fraser
Author:  fytrplt [ Mon Apr 02, 2012 9:34 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: First Flight
Wecome to the far side!
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