lateral balance question

[rtn9105]

What method of checking your lateral balance do you guys use?

[LJJ]

Put a screw on the bottom of the firewall at dead center. Measure side to side to get center. Don't use the crank, as many are not centered because of thrust adjustments.

Use 2 lengths of the good kite string (my stuff is 150# test) and put a loop at both ends. Hang the plane inverted from the ceiling using a tail wheel bracket screw and the firewall screw.

[Pro1Foam]

Do you do it with the tank half empty of half full?

[LJJ]

I prefer 5/8 empty....

[3D-Seth]

I normally hold plane by tip of prop, and have someone else place one finger at the tail of the fuse right under the vert stab - or vise-versa

[Downhumpty]

I have never done this. Nor have I ever laterally balance my airplanes. Maybe that's why I keep getting spanked on the flight line . Maybe I have dreamed it, read it, or heard it from a IMAC friend. Try this.

Flying, on a calm day.
Horizontal, high and slow,
Push to a vertical down line.
Once vertical with pattern rates on,
Pull up elevator.
Watch for wing to drop.
Do this numerous times from all axis
Take an average and whala!
Wing that drops is the heavy one.(or this can be caused by improper elevator setup)Be sure that your elevators are set with the equal amount of throw.
Add weight to lite wing tip.
Try again.
Repeat until your plane flies off wings level on the horizontal path.

Anyone like to add to it or debate it feel free. It's all a learning experience for me.

Kent Porter