Testing at max gross weight

[noelf]

Some time ago, Van's RVator published an article I submitted using lead dive weights and a custom box that I strapped into the passenger seat. I could also reposition the box in the baggage area for CG trials. Everything was secure and weights could be easily be added or removed.

[Caveman]

Bob,

I was given this advice for the front passenger seat, and it worked well for me. Use the 80 lb. bags of concrete mix. Double bag them with large garbage bags separetly in case you have any leaks. Remove the passenger side seat cushions. Place the bags one at a time upright against the seat back. Use your 5 point harness to strap them tightly in place. An additional partially filled bag can be used to fine tune for your particular airplane's c.g. and gross weight.

In the baggage compartment, I used 40 pound livestock salt blocks from the feed store. They are very easy to handle and fit easily.

Warning! Heed the others advice about strapping things down tight. Then double check it. If you do not have tie downs, stop now and add them. Do not take a chance. I could tell you a story but I don't want to embarass my friend...

[LynnHall]

I used sand bags and lead shot. I really like the lead shot, it was easy to move around and didn't take up much space.

[jthocker]

Originally Posted by LettersFromFlyoverCountry

Boy, none of these do much for me. If I'm doing a 60 knot climb, everything's gonna shift. the box of lift weights (all duct-taped up and strapped in) might work. There's just so little room on a seat without messing with the passenger stick (I know what you're about to write, but it's bolted in per the plans and it ain't coming out!)

Well I know this going to cause a bunch of people to go absolutely nuts, but this is exactly why my FAA FSDO inspector has told us to forgo the sand bag/lead weight in the seat method and use a live human if they understand the potential ramifications. My large brother in law comes in quite handy for these tests!
He loads himself, which also cuts down on potential back injuries for me, as I don't have to awkwardly load sandbags/water jugs/lead weights!
The inspector investigated an accident where the sand bags shifted and jammed the stick, resulting in a fatal crash. He doesn't like those!

[jbDC9]

Originally Posted by LynnHall

I really like the lead shot, it was easy to move around and didn't take up much space.

Yep, another vote here for lead shot; bought it in 25 lb bags at a sporting goods/gun store. Very dense and compact and can be secured by putting 'em in a duffle bag to tie down. It's probably more expensive than bags of concrete or dog chow, but could be passed/sold on to another builder.

[bird]

I like the brother-in-law, mother-in-law idea the best. just having fun

bird

[N941WR]

Whatever you use, double bag it!

If you use dog food, you don't want to invite mice. If you use sand or concrete, it would sure stink to have a bag rip open and you permanently add 20 or 40 lbs to your plane.

I used lead shot bags, double ought works great. Again, double bag. I had one rip open right as I set it on the hangar floor after testing.

Our EAA chapter bought a bunch of bags and makes them available to any chapter member. Maybe you can talk your chapter into doing the same.

The only time we ran out of weight was with on member's Murphy Super Rebel. Man, can that thing ever haul a ton and then some! He said his plane can haul more than his Dodge Durango SUV.

[LarryT]

... -then you have a lifetime supply of something you know you will use up. Kitty litter (basically the same thing - treated Fuller's Earth) for those who have cats.

Larry Tompkins
544WB RV-6A
W52 Battle Ground, WA

[rzbill]

Multiple bags of chicken feed. Removed the copilot stick and belted the bags into position plus a couple in the back.

[Wayne Gillispie]

We know the dangers and should inspect the plane before flight.

Like Jon, my FSDO recommended this to me. There was a local crash due to sandbags falling on controls.