weight and balance tail wheel lifting

[Rootbeer]

OK, Gang..........nearing completion SS7 and need advice on how to lift tail to level for weight and balance. The strength of my youth seems to have faded. I have thought of using the wing tie back tube to through bolt for a lift ring using an engine lift. also Harbor Freight has a hydraulic lift table which might work.....................so the question is how do I lift the tail for level ? And what kind of stand could be used or made to hold the tail wheel on scale when level ? (pictures)

[t j]

My tail only weighs 60 pounds sitting on the floor and 37 pounds when level for weighing. I can lift it by the handle and place the saw horse under the fuselage in front of the tail wheel spring then lift it the rest of the way by the tail wheel spring and slide the scale with the stand under the wheel with one foot.

I think the easiest answer is get a helper to lift it.

[PapuaPilot]

I put a saw horse next to my tail and lifted it at the TW spring and swung it onto the sawhorse. It would be best to get a friend if you help you.

[ken nougaret]

If you have rafters above you could use a ratchet strap with protective foam/blanket under fuse in front of horizontal and a come-a-long or hoist from above. Dont forget to chock the main wheels.

[jiott]

I used a high-lift jack under the handle on the left rear of the plane. Be careful though because this lift point is somewhat off center and you will need some way (ropes, etc.) to keep the tail from trying to swing to the side.

[t j]

Just curious, how much does a tail on a modern kitfox weigh?

[ken nougaret]

Yeah Ben, that sounds good. The difference being that your total weight is about 30lbs less than mine.