Rajan Wilcox
The Beechcraft K35 Bonanza is an aircraft with a 39-gallon wing-tank fuel system. The fuel management system on the K35 with Osborne tips is considered challenging. The main fuel valve switches between Off, Left, Aux, and Right tanks. The Aux position selects the two 10-gallon auxiliary tanks. When one of the auxiliary tanks runs dry, the fuel valves must be changed to select another source of fuel. The Beech Bonanza is a particularly popular aircraft for auxiliary fuel tank installations. Two tip tank options are available: General Aviation Modifications (GAMI) and D'Shannon Aviation. The GAMI system uses welded aluminium tanks, while the D'Shannon tanks are made of fibreglass and offer a 20-gallon capacity.
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What You'll Learn
The G35 Beechcraft's fuel system
The Beechcraft G35 is a powerful aircraft with a large fuel capacity. The original Bonanza 35's fuel system featured 39-gallon wing tanks, but this was soon outgrown as engine power increased. To address this, a factory-installed STC added a 20-gallon rear fuselage tank, available on models up to the 1954 E35.
The G35's fuel system can be quite complex, especially when modifications are introduced. The main fuel valve switches between Off, Left, Aux, and Right tanks. The Aux position selects two 10-gallon auxiliary tanks, which feed fuel simultaneously but with a differential of about two gallons. The left (LH) auxiliary valve controls fuel flow to the left tip tank, while the right (RH) valve allows you to select between the right tip tank and the auxiliary tanks.
It is important to carefully manage the G35's fuel system during flight. When taking off, ensure that the auxiliary tanks are full. Never use the auxiliary tanks during climbs or turns, as this can lead to an immediate loss of engine power and fuel vapour lock issues. Always operate the aircraft on a level flight when using fuel from the auxiliary tanks.
To optimise fuel usage, it is recommended to start by using fuel from the left main tank until at least 10 gallons have been used. Then, you can utilise fuel from the auxiliary systems. To do this, turn the tip tank selectors to LH and RH tip tanks, and move the main selector valve to the auxiliary position. Remember that during this process, the autopilot may struggle to track straight due to uneven fuel flow.
Additionally, consider the overall range and endurance of the aircraft. With proper fuel management, the G35 can offer an impressive range of almost 1,600 miles with reserve. However, the standard fuel capacity may not be sufficient for longer flights, and the use of auxiliary tanks can extend the range by approximately one hour.
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Adding tip tanks
The Beechcraft Bonanza is a particularly popular aircraft for auxiliary fuel tank installations, especially for the G35 variant. The original Bonanza 35's 39-gallon wing-tank fuel system was soon outgrown as horsepower increased, leading to the addition of tip tanks to increase fuel capacity.
Two tip tank options are available on the market: General Aviation Modifications (GAMI), Inc., in Ada, Oklahoma, offers 20-gallon tip tanks originally made by J.L. Osborne in Victorville, California. These tanks are made of welded aluminium and feature LED lighting, flush filler caps, and quick drains. Osborne by GAMI tanks have a long history, dating back to the 1950s, and are known for improving aerodynamic efficiency and stability.
The other option is the D'Shannon Aviation, Inc. wingtip tank system, made of fiberglass. This system also has a 20-gallon capacity and uses electric pumps to move the fuel into depleted wing tanks. One unique feature of the D'Shannon tanks is the incorporation of a sight-gauge window to confirm the fuel level, in addition to electric gauges. These tanks are also canted slightly, which reportedly improves roll control. D'Shannon Aviation has had 50 years of experience with Bonanza tip tanks, and their kit price is $13,850, with installation requiring approximately 50 hours.
- Use fuel from the left main tank first until at least 10 gallons have been used.
- Turn the tip tank selectors to LH (left) and RH (right) tip tanks.
- Turn the main selector valve to the auxiliary position.
- When one of the auxiliary tanks runs dry, change the fuel valves to select another source of fuel.
- Remember to only use the auxiliary tanks during level flight.
- Repeat this process as needed, ensuring you are always aware of your fuel levels and selecting the appropriate fuel source.
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Fuel tank options
The Beechcraft K35 Bonanza has a range of options for adding auxiliary fuel tanks. The original Bonanza 35's 39-gallon wing-tank fuel system was soon outgrown as horsepower increased, prompting the addition of auxiliary fuel tanks.
One option is to install a rear fuselage tank, but this is not possible on older models that weren't built with one. Therefore, wingtip fuel tanks are often the only viable option for increasing fuel capacity. Two tip tank options are available:
- General Aviation Modifications (GAMI), Inc. offers 20-gallon tip tanks made of welded aluminum, previously manufactured by J.L. Osborne. These tanks feature LED lighting, flush filler caps, quick drains, and improved aerodynamic efficiency and stability.
- D'Shannon Aviation, Inc. offers a wingtip tank system with a 20-gallon capacity, using fiberglass tanks that allow for the incorporation of a sight-gauge window and electric gauges to monitor fuel levels. These tanks are canted slightly, which is reported to improve roll control.
Both options use electric pumps to transfer fuel from the tip tanks to the depleted wing tanks. The addition of tip tanks can also result in approval to operate at higher gross weights, although this may require further weight to be added to the fuel tips.
It is important to note that fuel management with auxiliary tanks can be challenging. Auxiliary tanks should only be used during level flight, as using them during turns or climbing can result in the unporting of the fuel supply and immediate loss of engine power. Additionally, uneven fuel flow between the tip tanks can laterally unbalance the plane, affecting handling and autopilot performance. Proper fuel management requires careful monitoring of fuel levels and selection of the appropriate fuel valves to ensure a continuous fuel supply during flight.
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Fuel transfer procedure
The fuel transfer procedure for the G35 Beech Tip Tanks Aux involves several steps and considerations to ensure safe and efficient fuel management. Here is a comprehensive guide:
- Understanding the Fuel System: The G35 Beech aircraft typically features a fuel system with two main wing tanks and auxiliary tanks, including tip tanks. The main fuel valve can switch between Off, Left, Aux, and Right tank positions.
- Fuel Selector Valves: The G35 Beech has left (LH) and right (RH) auxiliary fuel selector valves. The left auxiliary valve controls the fuel flow from the left tip tank, while the right auxiliary valve allows you to select between the right tip tank and the two auxiliary tanks.
- Fuel Transfer Process: Start by using fuel from the left main tank until at least 10 gallons have been consumed. This initial fuel burn helps stabilize the aircraft before engaging the auxiliary systems.
- Engaging Auxiliary Fuel: After consuming sufficient fuel from the left main tank, you can proceed to engage the auxiliary fuel system. Turn the tip tank selectors to LH and RH tip tanks, and then move the main selector valve to the auxiliary position. This will enable fuel transfer from the tip tanks.
- Uneven Fuel Flow: It's important to note that even with both tip tanks selected, most of the fuel will flow from just one tank. This uneven fuel flow can laterally unbalance the plane, affecting its handling characteristics. Therefore, always ensure you fly in level flight when using the auxiliary tanks to maintain optimal performance and safety.
- Alternating Fuel Tanks: To manage fuel distribution effectively and prevent pumping fuel overboard, you may need to alternate between the left main, aux, and right main tanks, especially if your G35 has a fuel return configuration that directs return fuel to a specific tank.
- Visual and Electronic Fuel Gauges: D'Shannon Aviation's Bonanza tip tanks are equipped with sight-gauge windows, allowing you to visually confirm the fuel level. Additionally, both D'Shannon and GAMI tip tanks feature electric gauges for monitoring fuel levels.
- Takeoff and Auxiliary Tanks: It is crucial to never take off with less-than-full auxiliary tanks. Operating on partially filled auxiliary tanks during takeoff or non-level flight can result in the unporting of the fuel supply and immediate loss of engine power. Always ensure full auxiliary tanks before takeoff and only use them during level flight.
- Fuel Management Awareness: The G35 Beech Tip Tanks Aux system requires constant attention to fuel management. Regularly monitor your fuel levels and be aware of how long you have been using each fuel tank. This proactive approach will help ensure a safe and efficient flight.
The above fuel transfer procedure outlines the critical steps and considerations for managing fuel in the G35 Beech Tip Tanks Aux system. Adhering to these guidelines will help optimize flight performance, range, and overall safety.
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Fuel management tips
Fuel management is a critical aspect of operating any aircraft, including the Beechcraft G35 equipped with tip tanks for auxiliary fuel. Here are some essential fuel management tips specifically for the G35 with tip tanks:
Understand the Fuel System
Know the specifics of your G35's fuel system. The Beechcraft G35 Bonanza originally had a 39-gallon wing-tank fuel system. However, over time, the horsepower of the engines increased, leading to a higher fuel demand. As a result, auxiliary fuel tanks became necessary to extend the aircraft's range. The G35 can be equipped with tip tanks, which provide additional fuel capacity.
Pre-Flight Planning
Before each flight, carefully plan your fuel usage. Calculate the fuel burn for your expected flight time, and ensure you have sufficient fuel in the main and auxiliary tanks to complete your journey safely.
Fuel Selection Valves
Familiarize yourself with the fuel selection valves and their operation. The G35's main fuel valve has Off, Left, Aux, and Right positions. The Aux position selects two secondary fuel valves: the left (LH) and right (RH) auxiliary valves. The LH valve controls the left tip tank, while the RH valve allows you to select between the right tip tank and the two auxiliary tanks. Properly managing these valves ensures a consistent fuel supply during flight.
Fuel Usage Order
Follow a specific order for fuel usage to maintain balance and stability. Start by using fuel from the left main tank until at least 10 gallons have been consumed. Then, you can utilize fuel from the auxiliary tanks but only during level flight. To engage the tip tanks, turn the tip tank selectors to LH and RH tip tanks, and then move the main selector valve to the auxiliary position.
Takeoff and Level Flight
Never use the auxiliary tanks for takeoff or during non-level flight. Always ensure you have sufficient fuel in the main tanks for these critical phases of flight. Using the auxiliary tanks during takeoff or non-level flight can lead to an immediate loss of engine power and compromised handling characteristics.
Monitor Fuel Levels
Pay close attention to fuel levels in all tanks. Regularly check the fuel gauges and, if equipped, utilize the sight-gauge window to visually confirm fuel levels in the tip tanks. Being vigilant about fuel management helps you make informed decisions and ensures you don't inadvertently run any tanks empty.
The Beechcraft G35 with tip tanks offers extended range and flexibility, but it also requires a thorough understanding of its fuel system and diligent fuel management practices to ensure safe and efficient operations.
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Frequently asked questions
There are two tip tank options: General Aviation Modifications (GAMI), Inc. in Ada, Oklahoma, offers 20-gallon tip tanks, and D'Shannon Aviation, Inc. of Buffalo, Minnesota, sells its own wingtip tank system.
Fuel management can be tricky when the system is altered. When one of the auxiliary tanks runs dry, the fuel valves must be changed to select another source of fuel. Never use the auxiliary tanks for anything other than level flight. To use fuel from the tip tanks, turn the tip tank selectors to LH and RH tip tanks, and then turn the main selector valve to the auxiliary position.
Adding tip tanks can result in approval to operate at higher gross weights. The extra weight allowance varies by model. Additionally, the D'Shannon tanks are said to improve roll control.
The drag of the tip tank may be greater than that of other fuel tank configurations. The uneven fuel flow from the tip tanks can also laterally unbalance the plane, making for less-than-optimal handling.
