Coff,
we used the Load Distribution and Trim Sheet for all normal calculations.
This rather went out of the window for EROs (Engine Running Onloads) in operational conditions wherby you would load up and catch up with the paperwork later, perhaps ! Then you relied on the weights presented to you (if you were lucky) and your own experience to ensure the a/c was safe. No doubt some of our contributors can give examples.
The first stretched 'K' loading I did the a/c was nose heavy. So I took the very heavy HD cargo winch from FS 245 and tied it down on the ramp.
Perfect ! Anoher lesson learned.
I gave most of my 'K' bits, including a trim sheet to the RAF Museum at Cosford then their 'K' arrived.
Early in the life of the Herc Lockheed did trial an 'automatic' weight and balance system. It did not work very well due to the fact that the a/c had to be on level ground and with little wind. How many airfields could guarantee these benign conditions !