In a b-17, 135 seems to give the best climb rate. In a b-26 however, I use a series of zoom climbs. Go level and accelerate to just over 200 IAS, then kick the auto-pilot speed and zoom climb up about 800 to 1000 ft. then level for speed. Repeat as necessary. also, I've found that chopping throttle and setting the auto-speed for 175 IAS is just the thing for decending to final when comming home.
About the ball-turret control moving the plane, on mine, rudder input banks the plane when in gunner positions.
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Greg 'wmutt' Cook
332nd Flying Mongrels
[This message has been edited by Greg 'wmutt' Cook (edited 07-12-2000).]