Thorp Air Command - T18.net

I am in the process of building a new set of ailerons for N19GM's restoration. I plan to go with the folded trailing edge and incorporate a electric trim tab in the left aileron, along the same lines as I have found in past news letters.
The only thing I have not found, is discussion about balancing a modified version of the per plans aileron. Conventional wisdom on aileron balance seems to be that the static COG should be at or forward of the hinge line.
Testing my stock ailerons shows the COG to be roughly 1 inch aft of the hinge line. It took 13.5 additional ounces at the counter weight to bring the balance point to the hinge line. The existing balance weight and arm weigh 1.46 pounds. Right at the lower limit called out on the plans.
I take from this that static COG at the hinge was not JT's goal.
Any enlightenment on this subject from the group would be greatly appreciated.

Keith Schneider
Waynesville, Ohio

You are correct. The ailerons are balanced to something less than 100%. It was about 70% as I recall. They are connected together, so you have the added damping from the opposite aileron.
Cubes

That makes sense to to me. Thanks for the info.

Keith