Yup, I cut them off. Actually, I cut them off after the elevators were already hinged, a last minute decision. Pretty simple, just marked off a line parallel to the hinge line top and bottom and used a Zona saw, cutting about halfway through on each side. I beveled the elevators with a hobby knife and a bit of sanding, cut another hinge slot on each side, and glued the counter balances to the horizontal stab. I probably should have added a 1/32" piece of balsa to the rear edges of the counter balances at the hinge line, but the gaps will be sealed on both sides with Ultracote for appearance purposes so I'm not too worried about it. I plan to fill in the seams where the counter balances are glued on with a bit of balsa filler and cover the seam with a strip of Ultracote.

The pics aren't the best, but should give you the idea.

Hope this helps.

Dave