Instructions For Using The Weight And Balance Plotter - Piper SEMINOLE PA-44-180 Information Manual

PA-44-180, SEMINOLE
6.9 INSTRUCTIONS FOR USING THE WEIGHT AND BALANCE
PLOTTER
This plotter is provided to enable the pilot quickly and conveniently to:
(a) Determine the total weight and C.G. position.
(b) Decide how to change his load if his first loading is not within the
allowable envelope.
Heat can warp or ruin the plotter if it is left in the sunlight. Replacement
plotters may be purchased from Piper dealers and distributors.
When the airplane is delivered, the basic weight and basic C.G. will be
recorded on the computer. These should be changed any time the basic weight
or C.G. location is changed.
The plotter enables the user to add weights and corresponding moments
graphically. The effect of adding or disposing of useful load can easily be seen.
The plotter does not cover the situation where cargo is loaded in locations other
than on the seats or in the baggage compartments.
Brief instructions are given on the plotter itself. To use it, first plot a point
on the grid to locate the basic weight and C.G. location. This can be put on
more or less permanently because it will not change until the airplane is
modified. Next, position the zero weight end of any one of the loading slots
over this point. Using a pencil, draw a line along the slot to the weight which
will be carried in that location. Then position the zero weight end of the next
slot over the end of this line and draw another line representing the weight
which will be located in this second position. When all the loads have been
drawn in this manner, the final end of the segmented line locates the total load
and the C.G. position of the airplane for takeoff. If this point is not within the
allowable envelope it will be necessary to remove fuel, baggage, or passengers
and/or to rearrange baggage and passengers to get the final point to fall within
the envelope.
Fuel burn-off and gear movement do not significantly affect the center of
gravity.
ISSUED: JULY 12, 1995
SECTION 6
WEIGHT AND BALANCE
REPORT: VB-1616
6-15