1st Test Flight of Lesley V12 Engine

On June 2nd 2023 the 1/5 scale Topflite P51 Mustang fitted with the Lesley V12 engine was test flown by Stephen Green. Long time friends John Kellett and Svat Odstracilic were ther to assist in preparing the aircraft for the maiden flight.

The aircraft was 50% heavier than the recomended weight due to the 5 kg engine, a radiator, extra electronics for the engine and a larger fuel tank.

This meant we did not know how the aircraft would cope with the high wing loading.

A bitumen run way was selected to provide the smoothest surface as it was unknown as to how the aircraft landing gear would cope with a grass strip.

The aircraft took off in a relativily short distance and flew without any issues.

Our next task is to improve the performance though testing more suitable propellors and some engine modifications.