Hi Fred and John
I used the mod 33 drains for my mono but recessed them so they do not
extend out in the airstream. That removes a tiny bit of drag (all drag
is bad) as well as prevents them from being knocked off in any sort of
belly landing.
Best
Tom
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-europa-list-server@matronics.com
[mailto:owner-europa-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of
n3eu@comcast.net
Subject: Re: Europa-List: Fuel drain valves
> I am in the process of picking fuel drain valves. What have other
> builders been using and what is the best location for a tri-gear?
>
> Thanks,
> John A230
Have you perused Mod #33 on Europa Aircraft's web site? It uses SafeAir
drain vales, and you need at least an add'l two-hole, FPA 903A outlet
fitting if not buying the mod.
The pickup tube arrangement in #33 looks ideal for the mono, but on the
tri-gear, arranging the pickup tube to draw from either front or back of
tank is a compromise either way, because it's sensitive to ground slope
when taking samples per my tests. I think that mandates at least a
regular-sized gascolator also. However, my shop's Director of FAA
Compliance, Donna Dudat, has advised that only a separate sump tank
rather than gascolator will be close to 100% effective. So I constructed
a 10 oz. fiberglass sump which is undergoing its solvent-resistance
testing, though admittedly conservative.
I have mounted the drains on the floor, under the seats. Due to
clearance issues, rather than Mod #33 parts, I fabricated a mounting
arrangement using 90-deg. brass elbow and hose nipple, balsa wood and
fiberglass.
Regards,
Fred F.
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