How can the effect of added equipment on weight and balance be determined without re-weighing the aircraft?

Updating weight and balance records and computing the new center of gravity (C.G.) location is a systematic way to assess the impact of added equipment without requiring the actual re-weighing of the aircraft. This method involves taking the known weight and placement of the new equipment and integrating that information into the aircraft's existing weight and balance records.

Calculating the new C.G. location involves using the weight of the aircraft, the weight of the added equipment, and their respective positions (arm lengths) relative to a reference point, typically the datum of the aircraft. By performing these calculations, you can accurately determine whether the addition of equipment maintains the aircraft within acceptable weight and balance limits for safe operation. This approach is not only efficient but essential for operational safety.

Using simulation models or estimating the weight of the equipment might provide some information, but these methods do not offer the precision needed for weight and balance calculations. Consulting old records may provide historical data, but without adjustments based on the specific new equipment, it wouldn't yield accurate or applicable results for the current configuration. Thus, updating the records and recalculating the C.G. is the most reliable and effective method to assess any changes due to added equipment.