With the increase use of stress skin fuselages in pattern aircraft today we need to change some old habits.
The method of holding the stab as we start and run up the motors is not a good idea.
This puts a great deal of stress on the fuselage. The uneven loads that are applied on the fuselage create stress concentrations on the sides of the fuselage head of the stabs.

Flight loads and starting loads. Make the affected area prone to failure.


Just food for thought from out here in Corn country.