Proper C/G for float plane?
 

I need C/G advice. I am putting a Goldberg Eagle 2 on Great planes .40 - .60 Sport floats. The C/G for the floats alone is a couple inches behind the step. How shall I mount the floats to the eagle 2 to end up with the proper total c/g in relation to the step? Thanks.

RE: Proper C/G for float plane?
 

attach lead weights to the nose of the floats. That way when you remove them, and put the wheels back on, your Eagle will still balance properly. If you are using the sticky back weights, put a screw or two through them...The adhesive on the wieghts can loosen in the water.

What some guys do is build a small compartment in the nose of the floats, or install a pill bottle, and fill it with lead shot until the model almost balances...then add a generous helping of epoxy to finsih the job and hold everything in place...

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I just re-read your post...the floats have to be mounted so that the step of the floats is slightly behind the cg (of the Eagle) (1/2" or so). They should be installed so that the main wing is at 1 to 2 degrees postive angle to the top deck of the floats. Once the floats are installed, THEN you re-balance.

RE: Proper C/G for float plane?
 

Get hold of Ed Moorman in Crestview. He's a local(to you) float flyer and will hook you up. Ed and his buddy Flaps Laffert have build about 15 floatplanes in the last couple of years. Ed is frequently on this forum.

RE: Proper C/G for float plane?
 

Thanks guys... The info on the balance routine is most helpful and I will look up Ed moorman if I have any other questions. I am a bit hurried since I will be making a trip this weekend that will put me on an eight acre pond in Alabama where I plan to solo on floats. Wish me luck :)

RE: Proper C/G for float plane?
 

Basically, don't worry abotut the CG of the floats - it's only the CG of the total plane that's important. Make sure that the CG of the plane is as the manufacturer states, whether the plane is on wheels or floats.

RE: Proper C/G for float plane?
 

Well, I made the maiden flight today.... First one: stalled on landing - downside up!! Drained H2O from engine, etc. Still able to fire 'er up! Second, and subsequent flights: All well once I discovered that the Greatplanes flots were taking on water; not so Great!! Pretty tricky for a newbie to fly a variable c/g aircraft!! Did manage to get some good pix if anyone's interested. Again, thanks for all the info.