I just balanced my Superstar Select 40 in accordance with the assembly instructions which is 4 5/32". However, the manufacturer's website said to balance it at 3 5/8". Which one should I use?

When there is any doubt always use the the most forward position in this case the 3 5/8 position. The beyond 4 inch figure for a typical trainer of that size is way to far aft and apparently a printing error on your instuctions.

John

JohnBuckner is correct. If a plane is nose-heavy it is more stable in flight. If it is tail-heavy, then it could be uncontrollable. However, if it is too nose-heavy then you will run out of elevator control on landing an it will dive in at the last second.

That's not a big deal, just ugly. If that happens, then you should move your CG back about 1/4" at a time until it stops happening. If the plane starts getting too twitchy on the elevator, then you may need to reduce the elevator throw a little or move the CG back to where it was previously. Your instructor should be able to let you know what you need to do to improve the flight qualities of your trainer.

Think about It !!!!! forward Tail heavy Rear Nose heavy . common cents cents worth. CG that is.

Huh?

The Superstar should balance at the spar.

You may want to reconsider that statement. You simply cannot make an airplane tailheavy by moving the 'center of gravity' forward.

John

Thank you John. I was waiting for someone to catch that

move the CG forward of the recommended and the plane will be nose heavy.

Move the CG back of the recommended and the plane will be tail heavy.