First balancing test.

Without the engine plane felt very tail heavy. To check that I needed to do the test. I mounted the engine in the most forward position with some wire. A added all parts that will be in the nose (cowling, ignition, spinner, prop). With wings and LG in place i tested the balance. Right on spot. I can make small adjustments moving the battery. But it looks like I will not need additional nose weight.

What it means? I have MVVS 1.6 that is very short 33 oz engine with 5oz muffler and 5 oz ignition just behind the spinner and it balances right at it should. If I use Saito 1.8 I may have a problem with not enough weight on the nose. With MVVS 1.6 I think I'm right on spot. I will need 2.5 in long stand-off mounts without extending the engine box. I will be able to cut off the box and have enough space for the ignition and battery between the motor and the firewall. Quite clean setup. I don't know what the total weight will be as many parts are not installed yet. I just wish to be below 11 lb.

Now waiting for engine mounting plate (it's coming from Europe) I'm turning motor stand-off's - quite a task to turn aluminum rod into pile of small chips on my mini lathe Engine plate weights 2 oz and 4 stand-off are about 2.5 oz. That makes quite light engine mount.

RysiuM