Mystery Fuel Tanks

[BES]

Does anyone recognize the fuel tanks in the back of this picture? These are the ones I assume are PA-18 tanks and we are trying to build them into my PA-12 wings. However, the tanks don't seem to fit. They ride on the compression strut and sit high in the wing.
Wonder what we are missing? Any info would be highly appreciated.

Thanks
Bent

 

[SuperCub MD]

It's hard to tell in the picture, but I think I see a hole for a electric fuel gauge. Probably PA20/22. Your PA12 wings will need a lot of modification for them to fit.

 

[BES]

Hi Mark,
Yes, that is an electric fuel gauge pick up. Forgive me if it is a dumb question, but are 20/22 tanks different from 18 tanks - meaning they cannot be used in a -12 wing??
The plane is going to be an experimental, so what we are currently planning is cutting and welding a D-shaped channel in the tank in order for it to miss the compression strut. Bad idea???

Bent

 

[SuperCub MD]

I'll admite that I don't know a lot about the short wing Pipers. I have weld repaired some of their tanks though, and they look a lot like PA18's with electric fuel gauges. The biggest thing is that they have a tube running through them instead of drag wires under them like the PA12. You will have to convert your PA12 to use the tube instead of the drag wires, move some compression struts around, and probably some other things. It can be done, but these tanks are not just a "drop in" installation on a PA12. I think it would be best to change the wing rather than modify the tank which would create low spots and water traps, and decrease the size of the tank.

 

[BES]

No, drop in they are not. I guess we are going to have to weld a little. I assume it is a bad idea to move the compression struts, isn't it??

Thanks Mark, I appreciate your help.

 

[Steve Pierce]

PA20,22 tanks are the same as PA18. Can you change the compression struts on the 12 wings to match an 18, 20 or 22? Might be easier than cutting the tank. If you want I can post some pics of the compression struts installed in all of the above except the 12. I don't have much experience with them.

 

[BES]

Yes please, it would help a lot to see the pics.

Thanks
Bent

 

[Steve Pierce]

http://sparky.supercub.org/photopost/showgallery.php?cat=500&ppuser=58

Some pictures of a set of Pacer/Tri-Pacer wings and tank.

 

[cubunltd]

You have to move the compression strut in order to use these tanks. Do not modify the tank for the reasons stated by Mark.

John

 

[BES]

Thanks for the pictures and help, gentlemen.

Bent

 

[Flapman]

Bent,
Dakota Cub has an STC for installing 23 gallon Super Cub tanks in a PA-12. Basically you need to convert the tank pay of the PA-12 to PA-18 specs. This involves installing tank straps, moving a drag strut, installing tank lid mounting flanges, installing shorter drag wires in the now shortened # 2 bay, installing PA-18 tank diagonal tubes, and for your 18 gallon tanks installing a rib at the position of the # 4 rib in a 16 rib Super Cub wing.
If you would like more specific information feel free to contact me direct.
Regards,
Flapman

 

[landesskis]

Tank Conversion

Yes, you can do it, it requires moving a rib and then making a fitting for the tube that goes through the tank. I field approved my -12 using the -18 tanks, best thing I ever did (and installed flaps). If you leave your name (with phone number and fax) I could send you my field approval. You will also need an -18 tank cover. If you can build an airplane, you can do this mod.

Call me at the shop and leave a message if you want. 907-344-1450

 

[BES]

Flapman,

Thanks again!

Landesskis:

I have sent you an e-mail with my fax #. Thanks!


Bent