Control to the ailerons is via a series of cables and pulleys. While this works well, it does require that the cable be lubricated frequently or the controls become stiff. Wear and stretching of cables over time is also another consideration. Optional flaperons are available which can be used to trim the plane in flight but are not very effective during take off and landing, and actually work against the pilot when fighting a cross wind. Control to the elevator is via push pull tubes. Rudder control is via cables from the front rudder pedals, with push pull tubes connecting the rear pilots pedals to the front. The rudder pedals hinge at the bottom which means the pilot pushes on the top of the pedals to move the controls. Steering on the ground is via the nose wheel, which is very effective when a pilot of 165 lbs or over is in the front seat. Lighter pilots may find it more difficult to control as the front wheel has a tendency to lift off the ground during taxiing. The throttle system could use a little more refining. It has a fair amount of play in it as the outer throttle cables tend to bend and flex as throttle pressure is applied. This causes the engine throttle response to be rough at an idle, as the slides in the carburetors open at different rates. The seats are well padded, but not adjustable. The pilot in the front seat has plenty of head and leg room. The pilot in the rear is a little cramped for space as the cockpit is narrower in the back, and while the pilot in the front is protected from the wind by the windshield the pilot in the back is not. With doors it is recommended that fins be added to the rear section of the plane for better control. The throttle is located in a comfortable position for flying. The instrument panel can be modified to suit almost any need and easy to read. Flight visibility is excellent. |