Hi! Fred
My oval hole cut in the tank top is protected by the plate internally and a
silicone seal round the edges and I have had no problems of the swelling
kind except I had a leak once from the pressure "head" by leaving a column
of fuel right up the "cobra" filler over night . Better attention to the
silicone casket and more intelligent filling seem to have prevented a
repeat. No one advised me to ensure that the cut edge should be kept free
---From fuel contact. However early tanks had to have fuel stored and so be
encouraged to " swell" prior to installation into the fuselage/cockpit
module over a period of many weeks restrained by a strong frame surrounding
it. So movement can be expected but by arranging suitable clamps and tight
fixings I would have thought would restrain the swelling anyway. My Kit No
is 337 but I know that a number of builders have suffered split tanks . I
believe likely caused by letting the tank dry out after the impregnation by
fuel . Keep fuel in and such swelling stays stable. (I think !)
Regards to all in strife !
Bob Harrison. G-PTAG
From: owner-europa-list-server@matronics.com
[mailto:owner-europa-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of Fred Klein
Sent: 01 July 2013 15:29
Subject: Re: Europa-List: Fuel tank sensor opening problem
On Jul 1, 2013, at 6:53 AM, richard wrote:
Hi Frans
I suggest you contact LAA and ask them for a copy of Mod 10602 which Ian
Rickard had approved. This mod introduces a flange plate and seal assembly
into the top of the tank. The important thing is that the flange seal is on
the inside of the tank so no fuel contacts the out side or the cut edge.
Hope this helps
Regards Richard
Europa xs Tri-gear 45hrs
All,
Though still just a the builder, I'm following this topic w/ keen interest
and full sympathy for flyers who are experiencing fuel tank leaks and
deformation. When I read about the introduction of tank mods such as #10602,
am I correct in assuming that work of this nature is done AFTER slicing off
the top of the CM, say, 1/2 inch down from the top flat surface?...or
perhaps after slicing off one of the head rests, say 1/2 inch up from the
top flat surface of the CM?
Also...long ago I installed the Europa capacitance fuel gauge PRIOR to
installing the tank in the CM. (At the time I was astounded to read the
instructions' claim that it is possible to install the gauge AFTER
installing the CM by working thru the access hole in the side of the head
rest...I salute anyone who managed to do that!)
If I recall correctly, the installation included an internal flange plate
which I now surmise should prevent fuel contacting the cut edge...much
appreciation if anyone can confirm this.
Fred
A-194
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