Thorp Air Command - T18.net

Out with the old and in with the new. I'm replacing the stuck valve and removing four 90 degree fittings from the system.

_________________
http://www.dixiefriedfabrication.com/

It looks like the old valve was placed under the tank ? Probably the reason it was stuck, it never got turned on and off...too hard to reach. I don't like the idea of the valve in that location as it is very difficult to reach in flight should you need to shut off the fuel. Most folks remote locate the valve or put an "extension" handle on it so it can be easily reached.

RB

Got to agree with RB on this....you want the fuel value within easy reach...."just in case"...and the fitting on the bottom of the tank can crack if you put strain on it...and then you have to remove the tank to fix...been there..done that. My preference is an Andair valve sitting on a bracket on the forward tunnel..with a flex line to the fitting...nothing rigid.

Tom ! We finally agree on something ! I was worried that we had nothing in common ! I really like the Andair valve...yes it is a little pricey. I guess it really doesn't matter what type of valve (as long as it can handle AV gas) would also work. I have my Andair mounted on a center panel. It think Dan has his in a similiar location ? Very easy to reach and operate with one hand ! Positive locking valve in the ON and OFF position. You have to pull out the center knob to rotate the valve.

RB

RB

Yes the valve sits under the tank. Sorry I left out the photo of my extension handle as it wasn

_________________
http://www.dixiefriedfabrication.com/

I purchased a "premade" aluminum computer chassis box and mounted it on top of the fwd tunnel. The fuel valve is in it as well as the cockpit air controls, electric primer and Throttle quadrant. The side does come off should I need to get in there and look around.

RB

Rich, do you have the Andair # FS20X1?

_________________
http://www.dixiefriedfabrication.com/

Yes. FS20X1 Female. Got it from Spruce quite a few years ago. Not sure what the price is now ? Very well made...British from the UK. Chip, Chip, Cherrio ! I believe AirBus uses the Andair type fuel valve ?

RB

I recently queried Spruce about Andair valves and was told they are special a order item, went to the Andair web site and their prices are lower than Spruce enough to offset the international shipping.

_________________
Bruce Finney
N18JF T-18C #262
Yelm, WA USA

Hummm? I show the FX20X1 valve in the Spruce catalog ? P/N 05-29506

RB

How true, but try to order one, when I called to inquire I was told they are not stocked and are a special order. It was far easier to configure a valve the way I wanted it on the Andair web site including an extension handle.

_________________
Bruce Finney
N18JF T-18C #262
Yelm, WA USA

Lest me throw away my catalog ! Mama Spruce has let me down !

RB

Andair will be an exhibitor at this year's Sun 'n Fun (one week away). They are in booth A-050. Come on Down!

_________________
Bob Highley
N711SH
SN 835
KLAL

Wicks has the FS20X1 Andair Valve with male fittings. ON/OFF positions. $229.50. Don't know if it is in stock ?

RB

Update; As I have a gravity feed system I decided to K.I.S.S. it and go with a new valve under the tank with a remote shut off handle.

_________________
http://www.dixiefriedfabrication.com/