Instructions For Using The Weight And Balance; Plotter - Piper PA-28-161 Pilot Operating Handbook

PIPER AIRCRAFT CORPORATION
PA-28-161, WARRIOR II
SECTION 6
WEIGHT AND BALANCE
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. Replace-
ment plotters may be purchased from Piper dealers and distributors.
The "Basic Empty Weight and Center of Gravity" location is taken from
the Weight and Balance Form (Figure 6-5), the Weight and Balance Record
(Figure 6-7) or the latest FAA major repair or alteration form.
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 baggagt; 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
I
or to rearrange baggage and passengers to get the final point
to fall within the envelope.
Fuel burn-off does not significantly affect the center of gravity.
ISSUED: AUGUST 13, 1982 REPORT: V:S.1180
6-15