Katerina Swanson
Installing an RC plane fuel tank is a straightforward process, but it's important to follow the correct procedure to ensure success. There are several steps to follow, including removing the centre screw and disassembling the stopper assembly, bending the brass tube for the vent line, and ensuring the correct placement of the clunk and feed line. The fuel tank setup can vary depending on the type of engine and carburetor, and it's important to consider factors such as fuel level and pressure to optimize the fuel system for the best performance.
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What You'll Learn
Selecting the correct fuel tank
First, consider the capacity of the fuel tank. This depends on the desired flight time and flying style. Observe other RC plane enthusiasts with similar engine sizes and note the capacity of their fuel tanks. Harder flying styles, such as aggressive manoeuvres or constant high-speed flying, will consume more fuel. Therefore, if you intend to perform such flying styles, opt for a larger fuel tank.
The location of the fuel tank is another important consideration. Aim to position the tank close to the centre of gravity (CG) point. This prevents the nose from dipping excessively when the tank is full and minimises shifts in CG as fuel is consumed. Additionally, consider isolating the tank from vibrations and potential rubbing against the airframe by mounting it on a layer of foam rubber. This helps prevent the tank from developing holes.
Choose a fuel tank that suits your engine type. RC planes typically use nitro or gasoline-powered engines. Du-Bro, for example, offers fuel tanks compatible with both fuel types, ensuring versatility and convenience.
When selecting a fuel tank, consider the ease of assembly and leak-proofing. Choose a tank with a straightforward assembly process that ensures a secure fit, like the Du-Bro fuel tanks, which have a simple procedure involving the stopper assembly and flexible fuel tubing. A properly assembled fuel tank will prevent leaks and ensure the efficient delivery of fuel to the carburetor.
Lastly, consider the durability and compatibility of the fuel tank. Opt for a tank that can withstand vibrations and pressure without cracking or splitting. Some tanks, such as the Du-Bro fuel tanks, are designed for pressurised fuel systems and can withstand rigorous use. Additionally, consider the fuel system's compatibility with accessories like the Sullivan Products' Crap Trap, which helps filter fuel before it reaches the carburetor.
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Preparing the fuel tank
Disassemble and Bend the Brass Tube
Start by removing the centre screw and disassembling the stopper assembly of your fuel tank. Then, using a tubing bender, input a 30-degree bend in the last 3/8" of the brass tube that will serve as the vent line. This bend ensures the proper routing of the fuel line.
Notch the Fuel Tubing
Take a short piece of flexible fuel tubing, approximately 1/2" to 3/4" long, and cut a notch at one end. This notched tubing will be an essential part of the fuel delivery system.
Assemble the Stopper
Push the stopper assembly onto the neck of the fuel tank, ensuring that it is fully seated. Carefully tighten the screw on the assembly, being careful not to over-tighten it. Perform a pull test on the stopper to make sure it is securely attached and won't come loose during flight.
Verify Vent Line and Clunk Position
Hold the tank up to a light source and verify that the end of the vent line is positioned near the top of the tank. Additionally, check that the clunk, which is a vital component for fuel pickup, is located at the rear of the tank. This positioning ensures that the engine can draw fuel effectively.
Connect the Vent and Feed Lines
Once the fuel tank is installed in your RC plane, connect the vent line to a fitting on the engine's muffler. This connection allows for proper ventilation of the fuel system. Then, connect the feed line to the engine's carburetor, ensuring a direct fuel supply to the engine.
By following these steps, you will have successfully prepared and installed the fuel tank for your RC plane, ensuring optimal performance and a smooth-running engine.
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Installing the stopper assembly
To install the stopper assembly of an RC plane fuel tank, follow these steps:
First, remove the centre screw and disassemble the stopper assembly. Then, push the stopper assembly onto the neck of the fuel tank, ensuring that it is fully seated. Next, carefully tighten the screw on the stopper assembly—be careful not to over-tighten.
After this, perform a pull test on the stopper assembly to ensure that it is securely attached to the tank. Hold the tank up to a light and verify that the end of the vent line is near the top of the tank. The clunk should be located at the rear of the tank.
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Connecting the feed and vent lines
When connecting the feed and vent lines, it's important to ensure that the stopper assembly is securely attached to the fuel tank. Push the stopper assembly onto the neck of the tank and tighten the screw, being careful not to over-tighten it. Perform a pull test to ensure it is secure.
Hold the tank up to a light source to verify that the end of the vent line is near the top of the tank. The clunk should be located at the rear of the tank. The vent line is typically connected to a fitting on the engine's muffler, while the feed line is connected to the engine's carburetor.
To prevent fuel from flowing out of the tank, you can pinch the vent line. This will stop air from entering the tank, which is crucial for fuel flow. Additionally, ensure that the fuel level in the tank is not higher than the carburetor inlet to avoid issues with the engine's performance.
When filling and emptying the tank, be aware of potential issues with the check valve. While filling is usually not a problem, emptying the tank can cause air to leak into the line, leading to cavitation in the fuel pump. To prevent this, cover the muffler outlet with a plastic or rubber cap when draining the tank.
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Testing for leaks
One common method is to use the "Ghost" water test. Attach the fuel lines to the tank, ensuring that they are not flexible. Then, clamp all but one line shut and suck the air out until the tank begins to collapse. At this point, clamp the last line shut and wait for some time. When you return, open one of the clamped lines and observe if the sides of the tank pop back out. If they do, there may be a leak. To pinpoint the exact location of the leak, use the "Ghost" water test. Fill the tank with water and observe if there are any bubbles escaping from the tank. However, be cautious not to use too much pressure when inflating the tank, as it may cause the very problem you are trying to identify. A hand-operated pump or simply blowing into the tank should be sufficient. If you notice bubbles, ensure they are not coming from the outside, particularly where the fuel tubing connects to the tank's nipple, as this is usually not a pressure-fit connection.
Another method is to pressurize the tank with air and monitor it for any pressure drops, which indicate a leak. This can be done by plugging all the fuel lines except one and using an air pump to pump air into the tank. Then, submerge the tank in a bucket of water and look for any bubbles escaping, which would indicate a leak. Alternatively, you can place the empty tank in the freezer for a few minutes with the fuel lines open. After removing it from the freezer, plug the fuel lines and submerge it in hot water. If there is a leak, you will see bubbles forming.
It is important to note that these tests are not just limited to RC planes but are also applicable to larger aircraft. Aviation welding technicians play a crucial role in inspecting, identifying, and repairing any leaks in aircraft fuel tanks, ensuring the safety and optimal performance of the aircraft.
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Frequently asked questions
In RC models, rigid or semi-flexible fuel tanks are normally used.
First, remove the center screw and disassemble the stopper assembly. Next, input a 30-degree bend in the last 3/8" of the brass tube for the vent line. Cut a notch in the end of a short piece of flexible fuel tubing (1/2"-3/4" long). Then, push the stopper assembly onto the neck of the fuel tank and tighten the screw, making sure not to over-tighten. Perform a pull test on the stopper assembly and hold the tank up to a light to verify that the end of the vent line is near the top of the tank.
Place a plastic or rubber cap over the muffler outlet when draining the tank to prevent air from entering the system.
The fuel level should not be higher than the carburetor inlet.
The vent line is usually connected to a fitting on the engine's muffler, while the feed line is connected to the engine's carburetor.
