When you balance a plane should the measurement that you have be taken as close as possible to the fuse or does that matter.

it is best to have it as close to the fuse as possiable with out binding or rubbing on the fuse itself. the basic idea is to have equal distance from the fuse on both sides, where you are taking measurements.

On a constant chord wing, it really doesn't matter, and next to the fuse is preferred. However, on non constant chord wings, the CG measurement should be taken at the point specified by the man. Most are next to the fuse. However, some are a specific distance out on the wing.