lml@lancaironline.net Mailing List Archive

<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<--->>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> << Lancair Builders' Mail List >> <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<--->>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Bob: As I recall, there is a large percentage of first flight (or shortly thereafter) failures from fuel contamination. Clean fuel is a must. Despite all the precautions, there is stuff in the tanks, lines, etc. To me, a good fuel filter is mandatory. I bought the "big blue" fuel filter from Lancair. Had it for quite a few years before I figured out a place to put it. After a lot of head scratching, the space under the copilots floor between the fuel valve and the fuel pump was chosen primarily for accessibility and the ability to drain the filter without spilling fuel inside the aircraft. Asked for suggestions from the List. The only answer I received was from a flier who had installed it on the firewall between the gascolator and the engine, right above the hot turbo crossover. He said it worked fine but I was leary of the engine heat causing vapor lock and also the probability of fire since the filter as well as the fittings are aluminum and those two turbos are pretty close and pretty hot. I installed the hydraulic package per the manual but added a 1000 PSI pressure gauge from a T-33. That was in addition to the amber " on " light. The gauge is really worthwhile as you can watch the flap action as well as the gear. Also you get to measure how many days your system holds pressure. Like anything else, once you get used to using a gauge, you can't fly without it. I would suggest that you add the Lancair Hydraulic filter in the return line because there is reported to be a lot of metal floating around in the system from all those cylinders, fittings, lines, etc. One final idea. I did not want to have to pull the baggage compartment apart each preflight to check the level of the hydraulic fluid (we all do that -right??? ) , so I plumbed a little extension from the hydraulic tank up thru the " hat rack" and when I unscrew the fitting, there is a dipstick that indicates the level of the fluid. This is readily accessible thru the baggage door and fluid can be added very easilly Real neat and cost only a few $$$ . Hope this helps; happy building, Bill Hogarty LML website: http://www.olsusa.com/Users/Mkaye/maillist.html LML Builders' Bookstore: http://www.buildersbooks.com/lancair Please send your photos and drawings to marvkaye@olsusa.com.