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<< Lancair Builders' Mail List >>
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By staying personally involved with my fuel situation, I'll never
be surprised by a failure that lets my header run dry.<
How true. However the auto fuel transfer debate on this subject lacks one
important element -- SAFETY. The fact is that runningn out of fuel, stall/spins, and flying into weather
beyound the pilots or aircrafts capabilities are the threads that run
through just about every fatality. If you avoid the "big three" your
chances of surviving this great sport are vastly improved.
If you have a header tank, install either a auto transfer system or an
annunciator when the header fuel is less than 45 minutes. I have both. Your work load will be lower, your flight will be more enjoyable, when your
friend flys your aircraft you will not be up all night wondering if he
remembered to flick that switch and my insurance rates will be more
affordable.
This month I lost another acquaintance on his way to Sun'n Fun. It is
speculated that he flew into low visibilities, became disoriented and
contacted the ground at a steep angle. Fatalities two (father and son). They lacked both an attitude indicator and turn and bank. They had a GPS
though.
We must assume that humans make mistakes and advise accordingly. Be aware
of the "big three" and spend the time and dollars where they will produce
the most return. My Lancair header has a fuel quantity probe, an auto
transfer and an annunciator header fuel low hooked to a master warning. Do
I have a moving map? Nope, I couldn't afford that next level of safety
although I would recommend one if asked.
We need to get our priorities right. Safety first!!!
Jim Frantz
LML website: http://www.olsusa.com/Users/Mkaye/maillist.html
Builders' Bookstore: http://www.buildersbooks.com/lancair
Please send your photos and drawings to marvkaye@olsusa.com.
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