I have not yet ordered my engine or avionics, but I do have all of the airframe and finish kits. I wanted a way to get the airplane on its gear (so I would not have to continuously support the tail. To accomplish this, I used 1.5" stainless angle and schedule 40 stainless pipe and welded together a mount that bolts directly to the airplane in the same points used by the engine mount. Once in place, I used two 50 lb. barbell weights. The resulting 100 lbs is approximately in the same place on the datum as where the engine will be, and allows for the cowl to be installed with plenty of room to spare.
I've also included a picture at the end of where I am with the overall build process (before I built the weight counterbalance on the front).
I've also included a picture at the end of where I am with the overall build process (before I built the weight counterbalance on the front).
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