PA-18 leveling + W&B

[Naaalex]

Hello !

I am about to re-weight my L18C (no-flaps PA18 ...).

I read on the TCDS :

For all models: "Leveling means - plumb from PK screw in upper door frame channel to centerpunch mark on enclosure door rear hinge".


They also provide us with information on the PA18 information manual :





I will have a look at the plane today and try to figure out exactly what this means and the best way to do that.
But in case some of you have some pictures of this to help me figure out exactly what PK screw and centerpunch marks are, please do not hesitate to share

And all tips are welcome for this weight & balance operation.
I weighed planes before of course, but this is my first time on my cub.

Regards to all !

Alexandra

 

[mike mcs repair]

Alternate methods:
Firewall vertical.
Or wing bottom at root 1 deg trailing edge down
or level between gear fittings
or upper longeron under left sliding windows

many dont have have the punch marks to use a plumb bob as originally described by piper

 

[Naaalex]

Hello !

Thank you so much for your answer.

Which place would you advise me to use, preferably ?
(see pictures below)





My plane may be slightly bent but I have some spread between those positions (generally less than a degree).

Regards

Alexandra

 

[Larry G]

OOP's

 

[Naaalex]

Well, I have repaired several baffles this winter, and I know I still have work to do on this old lady for the next decade ... but to be honest with you, I do not really see exactly what you are pointing here.

You may be surprised by the fact that this is not the original engine, as the airplane was modified two decades ago by the previous owner, so the baffles are also different from what you are used to ?

However, this is not exactly what I am working on right now...

Alexandra

 

[phdigger123]

It appears that the felt around the baffles is worn out and needs replaced. Not a big job, but it will make a huge difference in your cylinder head tempertures. The felt needs to be snug up against the top of the cowl when it is closed.

 

[Naaalex]

The felt is more bent than worn out. The picture is not really giving a good view. The air circulation is correct in the engine, and there is no leak at this location.

I do not say it is brand new, but believe me, there is far more urgent work to do on this old 1951 lady than this felt... I go step by step, nicely. And after 7 months of mechanic, now it's time to fly again.

But unfortunately the w&b, which is not technically urgent, is a mandatory airworthiness item to be performed every 5 years under our national regulation, even with no significative change. So that is what I am doing about now, unless I want to remain grounded.

 

[mike mcs repair]

i use the wing root rib

 

[skipster]

I used the upper left longeron between the throttles. Could never find the prick punch mark. ( maybe disappeared when sandblasting)

 

[skywagon8a]

.Which place would you advise me to use, preferably ?
(see pictures below)

View attachment 25556

This is my location of choice. It may be slightly more accurate if you place the level directly between the upper and lower engine mount locations. This will allow for any distortion in the firewall.