How to Balance a Model Plane

Model plane enthusiasts often spend hours putting together their planes. Once the time-consuming building process has been completed, however, you may notice that your plane tilts to one side, or to the front or back. The bottom line: Your model plane is simply not balanced. Then what's the best way to balance a model plane?

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Model plane
• Plane instructions/plans
• Lead ballast

How to Balance a Model Plane

1. Peruse the instructions or plans that came with the model plane. Typically, the instructions point out the specific balance point for your plane. This is generally located somewhere near the wing's main spar, though this may vary from model to model. Identified your plane's balance point.

2. Balance your plan on two fingertips, set right up against the balance point on either side.

3. Survey the model plane. Does it tilt forward (nose-heavy) or backward (tail-heavy)? Does it lean to one side or the other? If not, your plane is balanced and you are finished. If, however it does tilt or lean, some weight adjustment is in order.

4. Add a small amount of lead ballast to the back of the plane if it is nose-heavy, or to the front of the plane if it is tail-heavy.

5. Check the plane's balance on your fingers again. If the plane is balanced, you're done. If not, remove some of the lead ballast or add more, as necessary.

References

• Model Aeronautics for Dodos.
• Dragonfly Innovations.