Stonedeaf,

Actually here are 2 links to the Avistar's manuals.

On page 8 of the first link which is the Avistar Select, is an excellent description of how to balance the model

http://www.hobbico.com/manuals/hcaa16-manual.pdf

On page 19 of the second link is another way to do it using the Great Planes CG machine

http://www.hobbico.com/manuals/hcaa2016-manual.pdf

You really do not need the machine, Use the description in the first link to balance either of the models.

The Avistar Select (first link) is balanced anywhere between 2.5 and 3.5 inches back from the leading edge

The Avistar Monokote (second link) is at 3.25 inches

As far as the battery is concerned, just wrap it in at least 1/2 inches of foam and either tape or use rubber bands and wrap them around the foam that you just wrapped around the battery. You also do the same thing to the receiver.

Now place the battery and the receiver (wrapped in foam and battery on the bottom) in between the servo tray (where the servos are mounted) and the fuel tank (there is a spot there for it) Now put the wing on and check the CG. If it balances right where it should then take the wing back off and pack the area where you put the reeiver and battery with foam and stuff it under the tank and the servo tray (where the servos are) bit do not let the foam interfere with any linkage.

Put the wing back on and recheck the CG

The plane should sit level or very slightly nose down when it is sitting on your finger tips and balanced

Oh, by the way, this is all done with the fuel tank empty and the engine, prop, servos and everything else installed. This is what as known as ready to fly condition, short of having fuel in the tank the plane is essentially ready to go.

Hope this helps...