Tips for
Balancing a New Airplane
Here s a neat idea for balancing your new airplane in all directions at once.
A model airplane has one point of balance where the wing's center of gravity
(CG) and the fuselage centerline intersect. That s where the secret lies, and
here is how you can use that point to get a perfect balance for your new airplane.
When you build the wing, install a light plywood block at this intersection
(your plans will show the recommended CG). For a high-wing model, the block
should be installed on the top of the wing. On a low wing model, the block should
be installed on the bottom of the wing. Mark the center of the CG on the block
and leave the wing uncovered so any unnecessary weight can be added for lateral
balance. When you are ready to balance, install a small screw eye into the block
and hang the assembled airplane from the eyebolt. Fasten sufficient (use as
little as possible) weight to the main spar of the wing to achieve lateral balance.
Now, move the battery, receiver, or weight as required to attain proper balance,
from front to back. This simple system will result in an accurately balanced
model.
From The Cam Journal
Central Arizona Modelers Inc.
Marvin Hinton, editor
Sedona AZ