Week 194 - Engine install and long range fuel

Hours to date: 1784.75

As promised I am updating on the lower side of the fuse.

I've put in the fuel lines and pump for a long range tank. I won't be building the tank itself for another 2 years or so but while the lower panel is not on is the best time to integrate the hoses as to do this later would be a real pain access wise.

I don't intend to use this tank in the UK so it won't be an LAA mod. It will be for long range flights outside of the UK. The tank should hold at least 35 litres and give another 230 nm range. Working on a conservative 115 kts cruise and 17 litres per hour fuel burn this would give a total range of 707 nm. More than enough to cross the Atlantic (in hops). Yes folks one of the flights I plan to do in several years will be the pilgrimage to Oshkosh.

Back onto the engine.

So I'd painted the mount and when putting it back onto the firewall noticed it had been distorted by the welding. As you can imagine the air was blue in the garage for a while... It was out on the other side at the top to the previous fix. So I ended up having to yet again mod a firewall hole. I used a waxed bolt to keep the hole open and then squirted flock into the remaining space. This worked a treat and has given a good result.

As you'll see below I'm now getting on with the engine install. I'll stop writing now and let the pictures do the talking.

Getting nut plates sorted for the under fuse panel.

Long range tank - will go behind pilots seat.

Tee junction into return line to Port tank.

Non return valve just before that.

Fuel transfer pump, filter and quick release.

Overview of underside. and fuel line.

Contraption I made for doing up things on the firewall - access is limited due to my cell mod.

Ali guide for stainless ECU cover to come - this will be in 2 parts that overlap to seal the wiring hole.

Upholstery in situ. Looking pretty swish methinks!

Another contraption. This one is for holding the prop flange still while undoing the central bolt.

Engine mount out by 6mm after welding. F*@K!!!!!!!!

Bonding in Capacitor mounting posts and brackets.

Fixing the hole. Waxed bolt and flock squirted into the hole with a syringe.

Capacitor in place. Just got to do the wiring now and paint the rough bits.

Oil pressure line - engine end.

Oil pressure line all done - will be secured to another hose later.

Fuel lines all done and protected with Firesleeve.

Battery cables and other some other wiring done.