Regarding tail wheel locking on takeoff and landings in WW2 vintage a/c:
Typically the lock was to be used during take off and landing so the tail doesn't "weathervane" in a crosswind. In a/c that didnt have a fully castoring tail wheel, they tied the locking mechanism to either the rudder or differential braking, and still others had it so when there was weight on the wheels (WOW as its called) the stick would be pushed forward to enable the tail locking.
For the 109, tail lockig on the takeoff and landing is optional, but I like using it for both for the added stability. Taxiing I have it unlocked of course.
Questions on the Bf 109 K-4
Moderators: Board of Directors, Command
Re: Questions on the Bf 109 K-4
"Train as you fight, fight as you train"
Re: Questions on the Bf 109 K-4
mh well, the tailwheel...Yo-Yo explained how Erich Brunette used to take off with the 109...funnily enough, i did it the same way from the very beginning because its intuitive...no tailwheel lock, full power immediately and up you are.
