What can I do if the rocket lifts off slowly or gets stuck on the launch rod?

For a slow liftoff or rocket that hangs up on the launch rod:

1. Clean the launch rod with steel wool. Exhaust residue can build up, preventing the launch lug from sliding over it easily.
2. Check the launch rod joint. If the connecting joint has a rough edge, it will catch the launch lug and prevent the rocket from passing that point. Lightly sand the rough edge until smooth.
3. Check the launch lug(s) on the rocket.
a. If the model rocket has only one launch lug, and it is not correctly aligned with the rocket’s body tube, the direction of the engine thrust will be different from the launch rod orientation and will cause binding. Visually check the launch lug and make sure it is parallel to the body tube.
b. If the model rocket has two lugs and they are not aligned with each other, the rocket will bind on the rod and it won’t launch. This can be checked while placing the rocket on the launch rod. The rod should slide easily through both lugs.