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Fuel Flow Problems, Again! (Vixen, Series-5)
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occom

Joined: 26 Aug 2006
Posts: 404

Posted: Tue Nov 03, 2009 3:37 am Post subject: Fuel Flow Problems, Again! (Vixen, Series-5)

This was one of the things on my mind when I did not move the header tank 

from the firewall. When I do an additional fuel pump might be a worthwhile 

addition. With the old aluminum header close to the pump and roughly the 

same level or above the carbs it seemed to me that fuel flow was about as 

assured as possible. The fact that almost everyone else has it way down low 

behind the seats and experiences no problems is assuring but then most are 

flying behind fourstrokes with stronger mechanical pumps that the little 

diaphragm rig the two strokes run.  In a static level setup mine flows far 

in excess of requirements, when the tailwheel is on the ground and the wing 

tank(s) near empty , fuel flow is marginal/inadequate for the 582 . No 

filters between the wings and the header in this setup.



Dave Goddard

KF IV 1050 / 582 / Warp



---

FlyboyTR

Joined: 04 Nov 2006
Posts: 215
Location: Mobile, Alabama

Posted: Tue Nov 03, 2009 4:37 am Post subject: Re: Fuel Flow Problems, Again! (Vixen, Series-5)

Today, I am going to work on the fuel outlet (from the tanks) area of my fuel system.  Plan to cut the nipple off the 90 elbow so I can unscrew it, remove the finger strainer and start over with the elbow assembly.  



What should I use to reseal the finger strainer fitting to the fiberglass tank?  Hopefully something I can purchase locally.  



Second, I will be cutting the root rib (end rib) to the fuel line does NOT run uphill before entering the fuselage!  After thinking about this hump...it actually makes for a large area for air to collect.  



At least I feel like I am making progress with my problem!.   



Travis

_________________
Travis Rayner
Mobile, AL
Skystar Vixen, N-789DF
Continental IO-240, Prince P-Tip Prop
ADI-II Autopilot
AnyWhereMap Navigation with weather
www.enotam.net (My Flying Info Website)

Tom Jones

Joined: 12 Mar 2006
Posts: 752
Location: Ellensburg, WA

Posted: Tue Nov 03, 2009 6:45 am Post subject: Re: Fuel Flow Problems, Again! (Vixen, Series-5)

 	  Quote: 	
		  Today, I am going to work on the fuel outlet (from the tanks) area of my fuel system. Plan to cut the nipple off the 90 elbow so I can unscrew it, remove the finger strainer and start over with the elbow assembly.

	




Travis, after you get the fittings at the tank outlet apart take note of the inside diameter.  I'll bet it is 1/4 inch.  A couple of those brass fittings for the fuel system that came with my Kit had 1/8th inch inside diameter.  Once plumbing is reduced down you will never increase the downstream flow with larger fuel line.



I would check the inside diameter of the on/off valves and other fittings in the system too if you haven't already.

_________________
Tom Jones
Classic IV
503 Rotax, 72 inch Two blade Warp
Ellensburg, WA

Lynn Matteson

Joined: 10 Jan 2006
Posts: 2778
Location: Grass Lake, Michigan

Posted: Tue Nov 03, 2009 6:48 am Post subject: Fuel Flow Problems, Again! (Vixen, Series-5)

I used Permatex Aviation Gasket Maker, or threadsealer, or something  

like that. It comes in a 4-ounce bottle, I think. The number I really  

recall is 3H. Dan Mc Intyre just mentioned Permatex 9 AR Tack and  

Seal, so if that is available, you might try it. The 3H stuff I  

mentioned is a little bit runny, so I mix it up good, apply it, then  

let it set up for 10 minutes before screwing the strainers back in.  

When I first installed my finger strainers 3 years ago, I applied the  

3H sealer to the male f'strainer threads, AND to the tanks' internal  

threads. Then I had to be very careful to insert the f'strainer into  

the hole without getting any goop onto the screen.....PITA! I got a  

little tiny bit of goop on the screens, (as I found out when I  

removed them a couple of weeks ago) but it was only a little and not  

worth worrying about, but I didn't do that again. This last time I  

only applied it to the male threads on the f'strainer, and they are  

holding fine...no leaks.

Lynn Matteson

Kitfox IV Speedster, taildragger

Jabiru 2200, #2062, 805.4 hrs

Countdown to 1000 hrs--195 to go

Sensenich 62"x46" Wood prop

Electroair direct-fire ignition system

Rotec TBI-40 injection

Status: flying (and learning)

On Nov 3, 2009, at 7:38 AM, FlyboyTR wrote:



 	  Quote: 	
		   



 Today, I am going to work on the fuel outlet (from the tanks) area  

 of my fuel system.  Plan to cut the nipple off the 90 elbow so I  

 can unscrew it, remove the finger strainer and start over with the  

 elbow assembly.



 What should I use to reseal the finger strainer fitting to the  

 fiberglass tank?  Hopefully something I can purchase locally.



 Second, I will be cutting the root rib (end rib) to the fuel line  

 does NOT run uphill before entering the fuselage!  After thinking  

 about this hump...it actually makes for a large area for air to  

 collect.



 At least I feel like I am making progress with my problem!.  



 Travis



 --------

 Travis Rayner

 Mobile, AL

 Skystar Vixen, N-789DF

 Continental IO-240,  Prince P-Tip Prop

 ADI-II Autopilot

 AnyWhereMap Navigation with weather





 Read this topic online here:



 http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p 70758#270758

_________________
Lynn
Kitfox IV-Jabiru 2200
N369LM

FlyboyTR

Joined: 04 Nov 2006
Posts: 215
Location: Mobile, Alabama

Posted: Tue Nov 03, 2009 7:26 am Post subject: Re: Fuel Flow Problems, Again! (Vixen, Series-5)

Thanks Tom & Lynn...

My fuel valve is for 5/16 fuel hose.  The ID was slightly less than 1/4".  I drilled them out to....9/32" ( I believe...).  Anyway, just slightly larger than 1/4".  I will probably drill out the new elbow and nipple coming out of the tank as well.



I plan to push some Goop into the nipple, all the way into the elbow, prior to cutting it with the rotary tool.  At least...should i have a spark from the cutting wheel (or spark from the motor) it will be isolated from the tank.  Don't need no excitement today!



I'll report on the results.  If you don't hear from me...you will know it probably didn't go well!  



Travis

_________________
Travis Rayner
Mobile, AL
Skystar Vixen, N-789DF
Continental IO-240, Prince P-Tip Prop
ADI-II Autopilot
AnyWhereMap Navigation with weather
www.enotam.net (My Flying Info Website)

Tom Jones

Joined: 12 Mar 2006
Posts: 752
Location: Ellensburg, WA

Posted: Tue Nov 03, 2009 7:48 am Post subject: Re: Fuel Flow Problems, Again! (Vixen, Series-5)

 	  Quote: 	
		  I plan to push some Goop into the nipple, all the way into the elbow, prior to cutting it with the rotary tool. At least...should i have a spark from the cutting wheel (or spark from the motor) it will be isolated from the tank. Don't need no excitement today! 	




Purge the tank.  I had some welding done near the panel fuel tank on my kitfox.  It was done at the Skystar factory.  Their welder just purged it with compressed air.

_________________
Tom Jones
Classic IV
503 Rotax, 72 inch Two blade Warp
Ellensburg, WA

FlyboyTR

Joined: 04 Nov 2006
Posts: 215
Location: Mobile, Alabama

Posted: Tue Nov 03, 2009 8:34 am Post subject: Re: Fuel Flow Problems, Again! (Vixen, Series-5)

Tom,

I know some folks will weld and cut after just blowing out a tank with compressed air... However, since I do frequent welding and cutting for friends, and I have headr of, and seen, several tanks explode (not by my doing).  Blowing it out with compressed air really doesn't purge the tank.  If there is ANY fuel in a seam, or even a damp area it is a recipe for disaster.   



Way back when, I used to weld on race car tanks with fuel in them.  However, I had a 3 HP Clinton engine that I ran VERY rich...barely running...and ran a line from the exhaust and down into the fuel tank I was working on.  The carbon monoxide would displace/replace any O2 and a fire or explosion was no threat.  Never had a problem...however, I wouldn't do it now.  ...strange how things change with time!



I'm not saying is can't be done that way...it's just not a safe practice (IMHO).  ...sorry ya'll...didn't mean to go off topic!

[quote="Tom Jones"] 	  Quote: 	
		  

Purge the tank.  I had some welding done near the panel fuel tank on my kitfox.  It was done at the Skystar factory.  Their welder just purged it with compressed air.

_________________
Travis Rayner
Mobile, AL
Skystar Vixen, N-789DF
Continental IO-240, Prince P-Tip Prop
ADI-II Autopilot
AnyWhereMap Navigation with weather
www.enotam.net (My Flying Info Website)

Lynn Matteson

Joined: 10 Jan 2006
Posts: 2778
Location: Grass Lake, Michigan

Posted: Tue Nov 03, 2009 12:05 pm Post subject: Fuel Flow Problems, Again! (Vixen, Series-5)

Ok, Travis, I can't let ya get by with just *your* story...gotta  

throw one of mine in there, too.



I was severely lowering (chopped, channelled, and sectioned) a 1950  

Oldsmobile Holiday Coupe (God, I wish I had that now, in stock  

condition!), and decided to put the fuel filler neck inside the  

trunk, so I stuffed wet rags down inside the filler neck below where  

I was going to cut it with a hacksaw. I had prepared the wet rags by  

rolling them together, then wrapping a 1/16" welding wire around  

them, leaving the long end of the wire sticking out of the filler  

neck. I them sawed the neck apart, avoiding cutting the wire, and  

rotated the neck so it was about 180° from where it started, and  

pointing inside the trunk. Then I re-wet the rags, fired up the torch  

and welded the neck back on, pulled on the wire and out came the rags  

and most of the hacksaw droppings.

Hey, maybe this is where I started to appreciate fuel filters! You  

know, like the ones on our Kitfox's (to stay on topic). Speaking of  

which, I dropped into KFPK Charlotte, Michigan, while flying today,  

and the IA there said he was restoring a Model III with a (of course)  

Rotax 80 hp engine. I'll check back with him in a few months and see  

how it goes.

Lynn Matteson

Kitfox IV Speedster, taildragger

Jabiru 2200, #2062, 807.7 hrs

Countdown to 1000 hrs~193 to go

Sensenich 62"x46" Wood prop

Electroair direct-fire ignition system

Rotec TBI-40 injection

Status: flying (and learning)

On Nov 3, 2009, at 11:34 AM, FlyboyTR wrote:



 	  Quote: 	
		   

 Way back when, I used to weld on race car tanks with fuel in them.   

 However, I had a 3 HP Clinton engine that I ran VERY rich...barely  

 running...and ran a line from the exhaust and down into the fuel  

 tank I was working on.  The carbon monoxide would displace/replace  

 any O2 and a fire or explosion was no threat.  Never had a  

 problem...however, I wouldn't do it now.[Shocked]  ...strange how  

 things change with time!

_________________
Lynn
Kitfox IV-Jabiru 2200
N369LM

FlyboyTR

Joined: 04 Nov 2006
Posts: 215
Location: Mobile, Alabama

Posted: Wed Nov 04, 2009 6:07 am Post subject: Re: Fuel Flow Problems, Again! (Vixen, Series-5)

Well...Nothing went boom at the airport!     I injected some silicone into the fitting prior to cutting the nipple.  All parts were removed without issue.  The finger strainer was clean as a pin!  There was a tiny bit of residue laying under the strainer in the little sump area.  No heartburn there!



Today I will complete the mods to the left wing root rib and reconnect the fuel system on that side.  Then, do the right wing.  



The header tank has a fitting/plug on the end/side of the tank, near the top.  Was this for the addition of a low fuel sensor?  I know there are several available (I was looking at Murle Williams unit, self contained little can, that sits on top of the tank).  Is there one that just screws into the tank?



Lynn...good story!

_________________
Travis Rayner
Mobile, AL
Skystar Vixen, N-789DF
Continental IO-240, Prince P-Tip Prop
ADI-II Autopilot
AnyWhereMap Navigation with weather
www.enotam.net (My Flying Info Website)

Lynn Matteson

Joined: 10 Jan 2006
Posts: 2778
Location: Grass Lake, Michigan

Posted: Wed Nov 04, 2009 9:36 am Post subject: Fuel Flow Problems, Again! (Vixen, Series-5)

I have the same opening in my header, Travis, and if memory serves  

me, there is a float valve that will screw into this opening, but for  

some reason my switch wouldn't work....switch was too long, or  

something like that. I do know that you have to be careful screwing  

the switch into that opening, so that the float doesn't flop over and  

hit something and you break it off inside. I ended up getting the  

Williams can, and using my switch. He does sell it as a complete  

unit. I see the benefit of having his external can as giving you  

about a 2 minute earlier warning than the in-header-tank  

version....and I need all the help I can get. : )  There are also  

optical sensors available, I've heard.



Ah yes, the good old days of welding bravery/stupidity. Nowadays I  

exhibit my bravery/stupidity in other ways.



Lynn Matteson

Kitfox IV Speedster, taildragger

Jabiru 2200, #2062, 807.7 hrs

Countdown to 1000 hrs~193 to go

Sensenich 62"x46" Wood prop

Electroair direct-fire ignition system

Rotec TBI-40 injection

Status: flying (and learning)

On Nov 4, 2009, at 9:07 AM, FlyboyTR wrote:



 	  Quote: 	
		   



 Well...Nothing went boom at the airport!  [Shocked]   I injected  

 some silicone into the fitting prior to cutting the nipple.  All  

 parts were removed without issue.  The finger strainer was clean as  

 a pin!  There was a tiny bit of residue laying under the strainer  

 in the little sump area.  No heartburn there!



 Today I will complete the mods to the left wing root rib and  

 reconnect the fuel system on that side.  Then, do the right wing.



 The header tank has a fitting/plug on the end/side of the tank,  

 near the top.  Was this for the addition of a low fuel sensor?  I  

 know there are several available (I was looking at Murle Williams  

 unit, self contained little can, that sits on top of the tank).  Is  

 there one that just screws into the tank?



 Lynn...good story!



 --------

 Travis Rayner

 Mobile, AL

 Skystar Vixen, N-789DF

 Continental IO-240,  Prince P-Tip Prop

 ADI-II Autopilot

 AnyWhereMap Navigation with weather





 Read this topic online here:



 http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p 70930#270930

_________________
Lynn
Kitfox IV-Jabiru 2200
N369LM

Pat Reilly

Joined: 06 Aug 2009
Posts: 345

Posted: Wed Nov 04, 2009 10:16 am Post subject: Fuel Flow Problems, Again! (Vixen, Series-5)

Lynn, Tell me more about the float switch problems you experienced. I have one in my header tank, and the damn thing won't work. I pulled it out checked it with continuty meter. It seemed to work again . I put it back in and again it doesn't work. The switch is hooked to ground to close and complete the circuit with power directly to the warning light. The light stays lit. The circuit is complete all the time. I know I haven't got the switch in upside down. It has to be a magnetic switch of some kind as the pivoting float cannot, and does not attach by wire. I think the magnet must be too weak to work when installed in the tank for some reason.

   

 Pat Reilly

 Mod 3 582 Rebuild

 Rockford, IL

 On Wed, Nov 4, 2009 at 11:31 AM, Lynn Matteson <lynnmatt(at)jps.net (lynnmatt(at)jps.net)> wrote:

 [quote]--> Kitfox-List message posted by: Lynn Matteson <lynnmatt(at)jps.net (lynnmatt(at)jps.net)>

 

I have the same opening in my header, Travis, and if memory serves me, there is a float valve that will screw into this opening, but for some reason my switch wouldn't work....switch was too long, or something like that. I do know that you have to be careful screwing the switch into that opening, so that the float doesn't flop over and hit something and you break it off inside. I ended up getting the Williams can, and using my switch. He does sell it as a complete unit. I see the benefit of having his external can as giving you about a 2 minute earlier warning than the in-header-tank version....and I need all the help I can get. : )  There are also optical sensors available, I've heard.

 

Ah yes, the good old days of welding bravery/stupidity. Nowadays I exhibit my bravery/stupidity in other ways.



Lynn Matteson

Kitfox IV Speedster, taildragger

Jabiru 2200, #2062, 807.7 hrs

Countdown to 1000 hrs~193 to go

 Sensenich 62"x46" Wood prop

Electroair direct-fire ignition system

Rotec TBI-40 injection

Status: flying (and learning)

On Nov 4, 2009, at 9:07 AM, FlyboyTR wrote:



 [quote]--> Kitfox-List message posted by: "FlyboyTR" <flyboytr(at)bellsouth.net (flyboytr(at)bellsouth.net)>

 

Well...Nothing went boom at the airport!  [Shocked]   I injected some silicone into the fitting prior to cutting the nipple.  All parts were removed without issue.  The finger strainer was clean as a pin!  There was a tiny bit of residue laying under the strainer in the little sump area.  No heartburn there!

 

Today I will complete the mods to the left wing root rib and reconnect the fuel system on that side.  Then, do the right wing.



The header tank has a fitting/plug on the end/side of the tank, near the top.  Was this for the addition of a low fuel sensor?  I know there are several available (I was looking at Murle Williams unit, self contained little can, that sits on top of the tank).  Is there one that just screws into the tank?

 

Lynn...good story!



--------

Travis Rayner

Mobile, AL

Skystar Vixen, N-789DF

Continental IO-240,  Prince P-Tip Prop

ADI-II Autopilot

AnyWhereMap Navigation with weather





Read this topic online here:

 

http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=270930#270==========

 he Contribution link below to find out more about

 lder's Bookstore www.buildersbooks.com

 s.com/contribution" target="_blank">http://www.matronics.com/contribution

                              -Matt Dralle, Li    - The Kitfox-List Email Forum -

 :

 fox-List" target="_blank">http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Kitfox-List<      - MATRONICS WEB FORUMS -

 =   --> h

 

[b]

Lynn Matteson

Joined: 10 Jan 2006
Posts: 2778
Location: Grass Lake, Michigan

Posted: Wed Nov 04, 2009 11:55 am Post subject: Fuel Flow Problems, Again! (Vixen, Series-5)

Why not put the inspection ring in place during the covering job?  

Then paint a couple of covers to match that area (stripes, etc), and  

you're ready to cut out the fabric and install the cover if need be.



Lynn Matteson

Kitfox IV Speedster, taildragger

Jabiru 2200, #2062, 807.7 hrs

Countdown to 1000 hrs~193 to go

Sensenich 62"x46" Wood prop

Electroair direct-fire ignition system

Rotec TBI-40 injection

Status: flying (and learning)

On Nov 4, 2009, at 2:18 PM, Dorsal wrote:



 	  Quote: 	
		   



 FWIW, When I covered my wing I put a U-shaped aluminum reinforcing  

 plate under the fuel fitting. If I should need to inspect the  

 finger strainer I will be able to cut the fabric and fabricate a  

 simple cover plate.





 Read this topic online here:



 http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p 70992#270992

_________________
Lynn
Kitfox IV-Jabiru 2200
N369LM

Lynn Matteson

Joined: 10 Jan 2006
Posts: 2778
Location: Grass Lake, Michigan

Posted: Wed Nov 04, 2009 11:56 am Post subject: Fuel Flow Problems, Again! (Vixen, Series-5)

Boy, that IS weird. I'm tempted to think that the torque of screwing  

it in somehow causes a "tweak" in the body and it won't make contact  

in that configuration. I'm pretty sure that your wiring is the same  

as mine....hot to the bulb, and ground through the switch to a good  

ground. The only thing I can suggest is to check for "normally open"  

or "normally closed", but I'm sure you've done that. The switch  

should "connect" when the float drops, as I'm sure you know.



Lynn Matteson

Kitfox IV Speedster, taildragger

Jabiru 2200, #2062, 807.7 hrs

Countdown to 1000 hrs~193 to go

Sensenich 62"x46" Wood prop

Electroair direct-fire ignition system

Rotec TBI-40 injection

Status: flying (and learning)

On Nov 4, 2009, at 1:13 PM, Patrick Reilly wrote:



 	  Quote: 	
		   Lynn, Tell me more about the float switch problems you experienced.  

 I have one in my header tank, and the damn thing won't work. I  

 pulled it out checked it with continuty meter. It seemed to work  

 again . I put it back in and again it doesn't work. The switch is  

 hooked to ground to close and complete the circuit with power  

 directly to the warning light. The light stays lit. The circuit is  

 complete all the time. I know I haven't got the switch in upside  

 down. It has to be a magnetic switch of some kind as the pivoting  

 float cannot, and does not attach by wire. I think the magnet must  

 be too weak to work when installed in the tank for some reason.



 Pat Reilly

 Mod 3 582 Rebuild

 Rockford, IL



 On Wed, Nov 4, 2009 at 11:31 AM, Lynn Matteson <lynnmatt(at)jps.net>  

 wrote:

 



 I have the same opening in my header, Travis, and if memory serves  

 me, there is a float valve that will screw into this opening, but  

 for some reason my switch wouldn't work....switch was too long, or  

 something like that. I do know that you have to be careful screwing  

 the switch into that opening, so that the float doesn't flop over  

 and hit something and you break it off inside. I ended up getting  

 the Williams can, and using my switch. He does sell it as a  

 complete unit. I see the benefit of having his external can as  

 giving you about a 2 minute earlier warning than the in-header-tank  

 version....and I need all the help I can get. : )  There are also  

 optical sensors available, I've heard.



 Ah yes, the good old days of welding bravery/stupidity. Nowadays I  

 exhibit my bravery/stupidity in other ways.



 Lynn Matteson

 Kitfox IV Speedster, taildragger

 Jabiru 2200, #2062, 807.7 hrs

 Countdown to 1000 hrs~193 to go

 Sensenich 62"x46" Wood prop

 Electroair direct-fire ignition system

 Rotec TBI-40 injection

 Status: flying (and learning)

 On Nov 4, 2009, at 9:07 AM, FlyboyTR wrote:



 



 Well...Nothing went boom at the airport!  [Shocked]   I injected  

 some silicone into the fitting prior to cutting the nipple.  All  

 parts were removed without issue.  The finger strainer was clean as  

 a pin!  There was a tiny bit of residue laying under the strainer  

 in the little sump area.  No heartburn there!



 Today I will complete the mods to the left wing root rib and  

 reconnect the fuel system on that side.  Then, do the right wing.



 The header tank has a fitting/plug on the end/side of the tank,  

 near the top.  Was this for the addition of a low fuel sensor?  I  

 know there are several available (I was looking at Murle Williams  

 unit, self contained little can, that sits on top of the tank).  Is  

 there one that just screws into the tank?



 Lynn...good story!



 --------

 Travis Rayner

 Mobile, AL

 Skystar Vixen, N-789DF

 Continental IO-240,  Prince P-Tip Prop

 ADI-II Autopilot

 AnyWhereMap Navigation with weather





 Read this topic online here:



 http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p 70930#270==========

 he Contribution link below to find out more about

 lder's Bookstore www.buildersbooks.com

 s.com/contribution" target="_blank">http://www.matronics.com/ 

 contribution

                              -Matt Dralle, Li    - The Kitfox-List  

 Email Forum -

 :

 fox-List" target="_blank">http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Kitfox- 

 List<      - MATRONICS WEB FORUMS -

 =   --> h





 ============================================================

_________________
Lynn
Kitfox IV-Jabiru 2200
N369LM

Dorsal

Joined: 29 Mar 2008
Posts: 34
Location: MA

Posted: Wed Nov 04, 2009 3:32 pm Post subject: Re: Fuel Flow Problems, Again! (Vixen, Series-5)

 	  Lynn Matteson wrote: 	
		  Why not put the inspection ring in place during the covering job?  

Then paint a couple of covers to match that area (stripes, etc), and  

you're ready to cut out the fabric and install the cover if need be.



Lynn

That is what I did except is was more like 1/2 an inspection ring, I probably didn't word my response very well. This could also be done after the covering job if need be. 

On Nov 4, 2009, at 2:18 PM, Dorsal wrote:



 	  Quote: 	
		   



 FWIW, When I covered my wing I put a U-shaped aluminum reinforcing  

 plate under the fuel fitting. If I should need to inspect the  

 finger strainer I will be able to cut the fabric and fabricate a  

 simple cover plate.





 Read this topic online here:



 http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p 70992#270992

Pat Reilly

Joined: 06 Aug 2009
Posts: 345

Posted: Wed Nov 04, 2009 5:13 pm Post subject: Fuel Flow Problems, Again! (Vixen, Series-5)

Lynn, Torque of installation wasn't enough to hurt the switch. It is a plastic tank. I have checked everything you mention. I'd like to get another switch and try it, but I am afraid it wouldn't work either. And, I'm tired of pulling the damn header tank.

   

 Pat Reilly

 On Wed, Nov 4, 2009 at 1:53 PM, Lynn Matteson <lynnmatt(at)jps.net (lynnmatt(at)jps.net)> wrote:

 [quote] --> Kitfox-List message posted by: Lynn Matteson <lynnmatt(at)jps.net (lynnmatt(at)jps.net)>

Boy, that IS weird. I'm tempted to think that the torque of screwing it in somehow causes a "tweak" in the body and it won't make contact in that configuration. I'm pretty sure that your wiring is the same as mine....hot to the bulb, and ground through the switch to a good ground. The only thing I can suggest is to check for "normally open" or "normally closed", but I'm sure you've done that. The switch should "connect" when the float drops, as I'm sure you know.  



Lynn Matteson

Kitfox IV Speedster, taildragger

Jabiru 2200, #2062, 807.7 hrs

Countdown to 1000 hrs~193 to go

Sensenich 62"x46" Wood prop

Electroair direct-fire ignition system

 Rotec TBI-40 injection

Status: flying (and learning)



 On Nov 4, 2009, at 1:13 PM, Patrick Reilly wrote:

  	  Quote: 	
		   Lynn, Tell me more about the float switch problems you experienced. I have one in my header tank, and the damn thing won't work. I pulled it out checked it with continuty meter. It seemed to work again . I put it back in and again it doesn't work. The switch is hooked to ground to close and complete the circuit with power directly to the warning light. The light stays lit. The circuit is complete all the time. I know I haven't got the switch in upside down. It has to be a magnetic switch of some kind as the pivoting float cannot, and does not attach by wire. I think the magnet must be too weak to work when installed in the tank for some reason.

 

Pat Reilly

Mod 3 582 Rebuild

Rockford, IL

 On Wed, Nov 4, 2009 at 11:31 AM, Lynn Matteson <lynnmatt(at)jps.net (lynnmatt(at)jps.net)> wrote:

--> Kitfox-List message posted by: Lynn Matteson <lynnmatt(at)jps.net (lynnmatt(at)jps.net)>

 



 I have the same opening in my header, Travis, and if memory serves me, there is a float valve that will screw into this opening, but for some reason my switch wouldn't work....switch was too long, or something like that. I do know that you have to be careful screwing the switch into that opening, so that the float doesn't flop over and hit something and you break it off inside. I ended up getting the Williams can, and using my switch. He does sell it as a complete unit. I see the benefit of having his external can as giving you about a 2 minute earlier warning than the in-header-tank version....and I need all the help I can get. : )  There are also optical sensors available, I've heard.

 

Ah yes, the good old days of welding bravery/stupidity. Nowadays I exhibit my bravery/stupidity in other ways.

 Lynn Matteson

Kitfox IV Speedster, taildragger

Jabiru 2200, #2062, 807.7 hrs

Countdown to 1000 hrs~193 to go

Sensenich 62"x46" Wood prop

Electroair direct-fire ignition system

 Rotec TBI-40 injection

Status: flying (and learning)



 On Nov 4, 2009, at 9:07 AM, FlyboyTR wrote:



--> Kitfox-List message posted by: "FlyboyTR" <flyboytr(at)bellsouth.net (flyboytr(at)bellsouth.net)>

 

Well...Nothing went boom at the airport!  [Shocked]   I injected some silicone into the fitting prior to cutting the nipple.  All parts were removed without issue.  The finger strainer was clean as a pin!  There was a tiny bit of residue laying under the strainer in the little sump area.  No heartburn there!

 

Today I will complete the mods to the left wing root rib and reconnect the fuel system on that side.  Then, do the right wing.

 The header tank has a fitting/plug on the end/side of the tank, near the top.  Was this for the addition of a low fuel sensor?  I know there are several available (I was looking at Murle Williams unit, self contained little can, that sits on top of the tank).  Is there one that just screws into the tank?

 



 Lynn...good story!



--------

Travis Rayner

Mobile, AL

Skystar Vixen, N-789DF

Continental IO-240,  Prince P-Tip Prop

ADI-II Autopilot

AnyWhereMap Navigation with weather

 

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[b]

Dick Maddux

Joined: 24 Jun 2008
Posts: 516
Location: Milton, Fl

Posted: Thu Nov 05, 2009 6:00 am Post subject: Fuel Flow Problems, Again! (Vixen, Series-5)

Pat,

   I too am using the low fuel warning system provided by Lowell at [url=Highwing LLC]Highwing LLC[/url]. It is a very nice unit that attaches just  above the header tank on the vent line. It is light as a feather and includes a  dash mounted warning light that warns when the header is not filling (giving you  about 15-20 min warning to dry tank) I have had it about a year now and am glad  to have it!

                                                                    Dick Maddux

                                                                    Fox 4

                                                                    Milton,Fl

  [quote][b]

lstaley

Joined: 29 Sep 2009
Posts: 9
Location: Weaubleau, MO

Posted: Thu Nov 05, 2009 6:35 am Post subject: Fuel Flow Problems, Again! (Vixen, Series-5)

Pat,

 Wish I had one of those on my Kitfox5 when I my plane ran out of fuel with  both sides showing 3/4 of fuel. 

 Little off topic but am replacing windshield and side windows. Does anyone  know what thickness on the windshield and the side windows I should be using?  Also what type of material should I use? Will one sheet 4x8 cover both of  these?

 Thanks,

 LeRoy

 Kitfox 5

 Wheatland,Mo.

   [quote][b]

Lynn Matteson

Joined: 10 Jan 2006
Posts: 2778
Location: Grass Lake, Michigan

Posted: Thu Nov 05, 2009 7:31 am Post subject: Fuel Flow Problems, Again! (Vixen, Series-5)

Ok, Dorsal, I gotcha...



Lynn Matteson

Kitfox IV Speedster, taildragger

Jabiru 2200, #2062, 807.7 hrs

Countdown to 1000 hrs~193 to go

Sensenich 62"x46" Wood prop

Electroair direct-fire ignition system

Rotec TBI-40 injection

Status: flying (and learning)

do not archive



On Nov 4, 2009, at 6:32 PM, Dorsal wrote:



 	  Quote: 	
		   

 Lynn Matteson wrote:

> Why not put the inspection ring in place during the covering job?

> Then paint a couple of covers to match that area (stripes, etc), and

> you're ready to cut out the fabric and install the cover if need be.

>

> Lynn

> That is what I did except is was more like 1/2 an inspection ring,  

> I probably didn't word my response very well. This could also be  

> done after the covering job if need be.

>

_________________
Lynn
Kitfox IV-Jabiru 2200
N369LM

Pat Reilly

Joined: 06 Aug 2009
Posts: 345

Posted: Thu Nov 05, 2009 4:37 pm Post subject: Fuel Flow Problems, Again! (Vixen, Series-5)

Dick, Thanks for info. Hell, I have a Lowell Fitt trim tab, Lowell Fitt radiator shutters and a Lowell Fitt bush gear. Might as well make it a Lowell Fitt sweep and use his header tank fuel warning system too. I haven't flown mine yet, but that bush gfear is awesome! Lowell was apoligizing for the fairing fit up. I don't know how you could get it any closer. The fairing fit up was as close to perfect as possible.

  Pat Reilly

 Mod 3 582 Rebuild

 Rockford, IL

 On Thu, Nov 5, 2009 at 7:21 AM, <Catz631(at)aol.com (Catz631(at)aol.com)> wrote:

 [quote]  Pat,

   I too am using the low fuel warning system provided by Lowell at Highwing LLC. It is a very nice unit that attaches just above the header tank on the vent line. It is light as a feather and includes a dash mounted warning light that warns when the header is not filling (giving you about 15-20 min warning to dry tank) I have had it about a year now and am glad to have it!

                                                                    Dick Maddux

                                                                   Fox 4

                                                                   Milton,Fl

  	  Quote: 	
		  



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[b]

Pat Reilly

Joined: 06 Aug 2009
Posts: 345

Posted: Thu Nov 05, 2009 4:44 pm Post subject: Fuel Flow Problems, Again! (Vixen, Series-5)

Leroy, I saw a Barnstormer ad from a Staley from MO, can't remermberr 1st name, looking for an NSI engine. I gave the name and # to a friend of mine with an engine for sale. That wasn't you, was it? I made my winshield and cabin top a 2 pieceer with the cabin top tinted and the windshield out of a softer heavier thicker plastic of somekind, I would be afraid to recommend the windshield material until it proves it self. Was easy to work with, but the stressed portion at top corners has stress marks in it already.

   

 Pat Reilly

 Mod 3 582 Rebuild

 Rockford, IL

 On Thu, Nov 5, 2009 at 8:32 AM, Teresa Staley <tstaley(at)centurytel.net (tstaley(at)centurytel.net)> wrote:

 [quote]  Pat,

 Wish I had one of those on my Kitfox5 when I my plane ran out of fuel with both sides showing 3/4 of fuel. 

 Little off topic but am replacing windshield and side windows. Does anyone know what thickness on the windshield and the side windows I should be using? Also what type of material should I use? Will one sheet 4x8 cover both of these?

  Thanks,

 LeRoy

 Kitfox 5

 Wheatland,Mo.

  	  Quote: 	
		  



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="_blank">www.homebuilthelp.com

_blank">http://www.matronics.com/contribution

arget="_blank">http://www.matronics.com/Navigator?Kitfox-List

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