Line length

[Jim Pollock]

I'm not sure where to put this but:

While using line length to trim a model, how short can you get the lines before the lap times and shortness of the hemisphere makes things look well, wrong!

Jim Pollock,   

[Randy Powell]

Depends on the size of the plane. A half A looks fine on 30 foot lines. Paul Walker's B-17 looked a little cramped on 70 foot lines.

[Dave Adamisin]

Isn't the minimum legal center to center (plane to handle) 60 feet for anything larger than class A?

[john e. holliday]

I think the only minimum is the 42 feet for 1/2A if I remember right.   I used to fly 1/2A on 35 X .012 cable until both cables broke when the plane hit the deck.  Line length depends on how comfortable you are with the flight of the airplane.   

[Dave Adamisin]

I think the only minimum is the 42 feet for 1/2A if I remember right.   I used to fly 1/2A on 35 X .012 cable until both cables broke when the plane hit the deck.  Line length depends on how comfortable you are with the flight of the airplane.   

Hi John. I was surprised enough by what you said that I went to the AMA site to check the CLPA rules. I "remembered" that the line length was dictated by engine displacement class and that back in the day we had a minimum length cl/cl of 60 feet. The rule book now just states the requirements for diameter based on weight and lists the lengths as 25 - 70 feet. You are of course correct. Thanks.

[john e. holliday]

Also remember that is center of handle to center of the plane.  On thE single engine planes, some people use the prop nut or spinner as COP.  I remeber a couple of people having to cut their lines on PA one year.  So check your event rules or what ever class your plane might fit.