I will tell you what happened to me..I am not suggesting it is right or wrong.
I had exactly the same scenario many years ago except it was not just wages, there were parts (which belong to me untill paid for in full) involved.
I put a 52lb weight attached to the nose wheel with a stout chain and padlock and informed the owner ( a well known flying club near the seaside).
They were not impressed and threatened legal action and even a visit by some heavies. I stood my ground and pointed out that even if they took me to court, it would take months and they would still have to pay me,so they said they would send in the heavies. I phoned the police and reported them.
I then phoned them back and told them that they were about to have a visit by the police, which would look well in the local paper , also it was not good publicity with their students, plus what ever else happened they would still have to pay.
They offered to meet me and give me a cheque, if I removed the weight.I stuck to my guns and said I would remove it when the queque cleared.
25 mins later I had the cash.
I lost their buisness but so what? who wants to work for non payers anyway?