Just curious about the P-51 FM

[horseback]

Originally Posted by IceFire

The new P-40 flight model requires plenty of trim now... more like the test reports although I'm not sure if by the numbers or not. Hopefully if the Mustang FM gets a once over we'll see that need to re-trim diminish and it'll be a more pilot friendly type than it is right now.

I will say that it is very easy to land in-game. One of the easiest in its year range for sure. I still have some difficulty fighting in it which is another matter.

I've spent a few hours in the P-40 series since 4.12 came out and have noticed that it does need more trimming to get the most out of it (as well as addressing the performance of the M version vs the E).

However, as both stand, the Tomahawk/Warhawk series still require less constant adjustment of down elevator-down elevator-down elevator-down elevator-right rudder-right rudder-right rudder then up elevator-up elevator-left rudder, ahh, that's got it--!???!--bloody hell!--down elevator-down elevator- ad infinitum of the Mustang series.

Of course, the iconic Grumman F6F is even worse; God only knows what the Northrup Black Widow would have been treated like...

cheers

horseback

[MaxGunz]

Rudder trim is because propwash torque on the tail changes with speed, engine, and prop settings. Below a certain speed you need rudder to one side and above you need rudder to the other. They joked that Hartmann walked in circles because one leg was stronger from holding rudder at high speed.
The stabilizer is offset to make 0 rudder needed at cruise speed which helps reduce heaver low speed propwash torque, if you don't have rudder trim you get to move the pedals instead. If you do have trim then complain about that. Step on the ball instead.