Skip,

I understand the ES CG range to be 95.4” to 105.0” (from Lancair).  With the front seat at 94.8”, a passenger there would pull the CG fwd (very slightly), thus away from the envelope, not into in (???).  Furthermore, I’m a TSIO-550 (60+Lbs heavier than an IO 550 on the nose) – but don’t know how that relates to a Lyc540 (assume heavier).  I also do not have a step (7 lbs’ish) in the rear, nor luggage floors - all part of my weight austerity program – Jenny Craig for the ES  :-)

 

Overall, the battery dilemma is an interesting one.  After building/weighting, I can much more easily move one battery fwd if the W&B allows (the “B” starting battery), or reduce the size of the “A” battery (as Brent suggests/implies).  However, moving one into the tail after the tail/top was bonded on would seem very difficult (if not planned for from a space and secure mounting location standpoint).

 

I currently have a std continental starter, as I’ve heard “mixed” comments on the lightweight, permanent magnet starters (high current draw and reduced gear durability).  Any comments from folks on those? 

 

Any other nose weight saving ideas?

 

Rick

 

From: Lancair Mailing List [mailto:lml@lancaironline.net] On Behalf Of Skip Slater
Sent: Monday, March 26, 2007 12:45 AM
…With just me in it and a light fuel load, I'm right at forward CG.  Anything I add in the way of pax, fuel or especially baggage helps move me more into the envelope.  To give myself a pad, I usually carry a small tool bag under the floor in the baggage area that probably weighs around 20 lbs.  I normally land with full flaps and full nose up trim..