James,
Warning! While a pipe clamp can be very useful to stop fuel going all over
the place while working with flexible pipes, please be very careful when
using it, either during installation or later in service. Ensure that the
clamp you use has smooth round (at least 1/4 inch diameter) jaws and apply
no more pressure than is needed to stop the fuel flow - do not crush the
pipe.
Andy Draper of the LAA has warned that the action of clamping can lead to
internal break-up of the tube material, making debris in the system and
leakage. This is all the more dangerous because the clamp may leave no sign
of damage that an external inspection might pick up before trouble occurs.
Pete Jeffers offers the advice that replacement is best done by removing
each pipe in turn, cutting the new piece to match the length, then fitting
it and securing both ends before disconnecting the next one. This way you
avoid the possibility of making a mistake by cross-connection. Double check
that you are fitting fuel filters the correct way round, matching the arrow
marking with the direction of flow. There should be no tight radii or kinks,
and pipes should be secured so that they do not flop around (but do not tie
them to electrical cables!).
When all the new pipes are in place and you have checked all connections for
tightness, flush the system through by disconnecting the carburettors and
operating the pumps to feed fuel into a suitable container, until you are
sure there is no debris remaining. For complete peace of mind, as
recommended by your inspector, carry out full system flow and pressure tests
in accordance with the Europa engine installation manual. For the Rotax 914,
the instructions are in the Europa XS Rotax 914 Engine Manual Issue 7 June
2004 Page 9 - 3.
Further information is available from the Rotax website
https://www.rotax-owner.com/en/support-topmenu/engine-manuals#914-series-eng
ines, from which you can download installation and maintenance manuals.
For a UK owner, the replacement of hoses and subsequent system checks should
be signed off by your LAA inspector. If you wish to make any changes to the
system while you are replacing the pipes, the LAA inspector may approve the
routing, but any changes to system configuration that differ from the manual
or an approved modification would require LAA approval.
Hope this helps.
Mike
Dr Mike Gregory
Europa Club Safety Officer
01480 451655
07885 355765
From: owner-europa-list-server@matronics.com
<owner-europa-list-server@matronics.com> On Behalf Of Steve Ivell
Sent: 12 January 2021 22:50
Subject: Re: Europa-List: Re: Possible Leaking Fuel Tank!
Hi James
You only have an extra oil line to the turbo so it's virtually the same job
as a 912.
Make sure you get some long reach pipe clamp wrench. It makes the job much
easier.
Also don't be afraid to remove the intake manifolds of the top of the
engine. They are sealed by rubber o rings so no gaskets to worry about.
Good luck.
Kind Regards
Steve Ivell
GSTES
90% Finished.....90% left to do!!
_____
From: owner-europa-list-server@matronics.com
<mailto:owner-europa-list-server@matronics.com>
<owner-europa-list-server@matronics.com
<mailto:owner-europa-list-server@matronics.com> > on behalf of Mallard
<james@kingdom.ie <mailto:james@kingdom.ie> >
Sent: Tuesday, January 12, 2021 8:33:26 PM
<europa-list@matronics.com <mailto:europa-list@matronics.com> >
Subject: Europa-List: Re: Possible Leaking Fuel Tank!
<mailto:james@kingdom.ie> >
This is an update on my fuel leak for anyone who is interested.
At the weekend an LAA Inspector went to my aircraft and as a result of his
investigation, he discovered that the Fuel Pipe from the Starboard Sump to
the Starboard Fuel Drain had literally disintegrated at a point where there
was an elbow in the pipe. He described the pipe as having gone very soft, so
soft it had the consistency of Spaghetti & there was a hole in it, through
which you could stick your finger!
My next task is to replace all the Fuel & Coolant Pipes because they haven't
been replaced since aircraft was built 10 years ago.
Since my aircraft has a 914 engine there is more pipe work than in a 912S.
Has anyone replaced all the Fuel Pipes in a 914 and if so, would you have a
detailed description of the easiest way to go about the task?
Thanks to all who responded to my original query and to those who may
respond again.
Regards and Happy New Year to everyone.
James
--------
Seat of my pants
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http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=500161#500161
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