Line Length for BHM Night Hawk

[David Jones]

Just getting back into it after many years of RC.
Built a Black Hawk Models 'Night Hawk' but I'm not too sure what length lines I should try.
The model has a 20" wingspan, Weighs 12.4oz (3/4 oz is tail ballast to get CG correct) and is powered by a 1970's Fuji 099 S-II.
I have some 52' .012" lines that I could cut down if required.

Any guidance on the line lengths would be much appreciated.

[Dave_Trible]

That's a nice looking ship.  Based on your engine size I'd think the lines you have are too much.  I'd be trying .008 x about 40-45 feet.

Dave

[Garf]

If you have to use the .012, consider 35'.

[Target]

If it were me, I would use spider-wire dyneema fishing line to set the length while you are messing with the prop and lap time, then when you have that figured out to your liking, switch to whatever size wire is "per code" (or not, if you aren't going to fly contests), and get some of that diameter wire.
If you switch from Spyder-wire to multi-strand wire, I would plan on adding a little tip weight when you make the change.

Nice plane!

[David Jones]

Thanks for the suggestions, chaps.
I will only be sport flying so have ordered a set of .008 x 42' multi-strand wires.
We'll see how it goes.
Dave

[Paul Smith]

I'd go with the suggested .012" x 35'. 

.008" is a pain in the butt unless you are flying reedies or sub-.049 size engines.  You can't hardly make them up without damaging them.  If the .099 turns out to be healthy you are in trouble.