Hi, I do not hold a PPL, but I used regularly fly front seat (once a week, weather permitting) in a 65hp J3, I can confirm all of the above plus points, as for hand swinging, I was taught by a vexperienced taildrager driver and when done correctly and with respect is not a problem. Just remember the guy stood in front of the mincer is in charge, if the driver try's to rush the procedure then tell him to do it, trust me he will only do it to you once.
"Our" J3 did go as far afield as Belgium.
Good luck
PM
