Earthstar Forums

Has anyone tried to install a seat tank to push endurance from 2.5 hours to 4 (plus reserve)?

Looks like there is room in this G2K photo. Wondering about the J Gull.

Once upon a time I also wanted longer range. But didn't find a solution
that was both safe and simple.

Regarding seat tanks, I've always wondered how they survive in a crash.
Because if they leaked, you would be at the center of any fire that
happened.

I can testify from personal experience that the original 10 gal tank can
survive a severe crash intact. Since I was sitting on top of my broken
seat, pinned in the wreckage, I was extraordinarily grateful that there
wasn't any leaking fuel.

I hope this helps you.
Dave

I'm in agreement with Dave, though fortunately I don't have his lived
experience of surviving a serious crash.

A better way, if you have an HKS, to get extra distance would be to
purchase, install, and learn how to use a HacMan leaning system (GreenSky
aviation).

In my JT2 there is also room for two 2.5 gallon No-Spill plastic gas cans
which I use when flying in very remote areas where I can't refill. The
No-Spill brand is what Mark recommends. I don't need this unless I'm flying
in places like the Alvord Desert or the Snake River backcountry strips.

Generally, I'm stopping every 2-2.5 hours, which in my setup (where my
average fuel burn including climb is close to 2.5 gal/hour), means I have a
3-5 gallon reserve.

-Alan

Yes every one uses a 10 gal tank

Sent from my iPhone

If you look in the photos, in Mikeinthehats Gull 2000 you will see a pic of my 12 Us gal, (10 imp) aluminum race car tank. I use a simple clear tube as the gauge that I can see by using a little mirror I keep in a pocket beside the seat. For long flights I also carry a 2 gal jerry can that sits on top of the tank. Since I installed a Hackman leaning system my fuel burn at cruise is a lot better using an Ivo inflight adjustable prop.


Mike S

Mark you use to fly from your home base out to Sun-In-Fun on a 503. Did you do anything special on your fuel payload for extended flight?

The idea that was recommended on leaning out the carbs with the HacMan from greensky is great but really isn't there a way to do more fuel payload. I currently fly a Quicksilver GT400, very similar to your configuration. I have 10 in the back in the pylon and 8 overhead in the wing and brother I can stay up in the sky 4 hours and still have reserve.

How about mounting wing tanks during the build? I have a line on an orphan Thundergull that it looks like I am going to be able to provide a new home for her. I have admired Mark's work forever.

Bob Brasher
1000 hrs on a GT400

Hi Mike
You must have a 2 stroke engine to need that much fuel?
The HKS only uses 2.4 gph at 90 mph in my Odyssey.
No need for more than 10 gallons.
Happy Flying
Mark

Sent from my iPhone

Mark,

I understand you burn 2.4 gph at 90 mph in your HKS Odyssey.

The HKS manual says at 75% power it will burn 3.4 gph.

What energy saving techniques could you share?

Thanks much

Skot Weidemann
*HKS Odyssey N159BS