Our Staggerwing uses the OS 160FX engine and the battery enclosure is mounted 8 inches forward of the datum (the wings leading edge) and directly opposite the engine in order to get the aircraft CG on the forward side of the CG range. Digital scales and a spreadsheet program were used to determine aircraft CG (similar to weighing full scale aircraft) and the process works out great for determining how much weight needs to go where on any new build.

For our particular Staggerwing, a 4CP-3600CR rx pack was required (purchased from Maxx Products) that provided the proper balance weight in combination with the battery enclosure purchased from Newark Electronic Components. Extra long bolts were ran thru a J-TEC engine mount in order to fasten the battery enclosure. Additional openings were added to the port side of the mock engine and the bottom of the cowling was opened up even more to increase air circulation over the engine and battery.

Three ounces of lead were added to the battery enclosure after the last flight to move the CG closer to the forward limit and tweak flight characteristics. We hope to fly again this week to determine if more air circulation is necessary to keep the engine and battery properly cooled.

Michael