Tailwheel "controlling" the direction
Tailweel lock in the best twin of all time...
I see a couple mentioning the DC-3/C-47 here.
I'm only a low-hour person on these but for those that have never had the privilege it's probably worth mentioning that they do have a tailwheel lock. It was part of our checklist to ensure this was in or out at appropriate times!
Perhaps this was one reason for us always using three-pointing the machine. It wasn't necessarily mandated but we all understood it wasn't to be wheeled on, although one of the very experienced guys did do that (very nicely too :-).
FP.
I'm only a low-hour person on these but for those that have never had the privilege it's probably worth mentioning that they do have a tailwheel lock. It was part of our checklist to ensure this was in or out at appropriate times!
Perhaps this was one reason for us always using three-pointing the machine. It wasn't necessarily mandated but we all understood it wasn't to be wheeled on, although one of the very experienced guys did do that (very nicely too :-).
FP.
The wheeler/three pointer argument is always interesting and passionate, more so when both sides are talking about the same aircraft! To me it says less about the aircraft and more about the pilot. Personally, nailing a perfect three point, slow speed landing, on the back of the drag curve is very satisfying.
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For typical african bush strips it is best use a 3 point attitude but keep the more fragile tail wheel about a foot off the ground as long as possible. If it starts to swing the tail can be quickly dropped to regain directional stability.
