I have a S7 long tail, s/n 1207493, that I ve recently reweighed. With it s heavy aftermarket tailwheel, the CG is too far aft to accomdate a heavier PAX.
Any suggestions as to how to move the CG forward?
Below are some ideas, none really attractive.
Move the battery forward, under PAX seat
Put lead ballast on the firewall.
Under pilots seat. On the engine mount in the cabin, or under the cowling, aft of the rubber mounts.
Get a lighter, less long tailwheel.
I have a spreadsheet where I try out different weights at different stations.
Most intriguing — in an alternate universe, where harmonic reasonance doesn t tear things apart—a 5 lb lead divers weight is bolted into the back of the torque converter. This shifts the CG forward nicely. (It would be bolted into existing M8 threads, where engine auxiliaries can be bolted in take power off torque converter, as used in other configuration.)
But given the S7s limited rubber mounts, weight forward of the mounts could cause bad vibrations. So, forget a heavier prop or spinner.
Thanks for your ideas and comments.
Bruce