[Graham]

I have had a recent glow fuel leak. For some reason the fuel started to leak around the cap or stopper on the tank. Not sure why it all of sudden started to do this but...must find a way, so it will not happen again.

What are people doing at the stopper, is there a silicone or sealant that should be used to ensure it will not leak??

Need some help!

Thanks

[Nuker]

Hi Graham,

how old is the tank? Which brand? Did you tighten the screw hard? Did you remember to put in the either metal or plastic back plate on the other side of the stopper?

I haven't had any leaks in mine. I predominantly use the Sullivan flex tanks.

I have seen some older tanks where the stopper disolves a bit over time.

I've seen some guys use some silicone but it doesn't seem to last too long; at least from what I've seen to date.

Bob

[Graham]

It is a Sullivan, and was installed new last year. Many flights. Yes was installed with the plastic backup washer, and yes the screw was tightened well when installed.

I am able to hear an air leak in the area of the cap, if I blow in one line and block the other.

[ronm]

Graham, can you tell where the air is coming out?
Often it is the fuel line right where it attaches to the brass tube.

When I have a problem with a tank, I chuck it and buy a new one.
Have you tried the Great Planes tanks? They have a different stopper design, and are less likely to leak.

[Graham]

Hi Ron..

It appears to be leaking around the lip of the cap. I will see if I can get a GP tank.

Thanks.

[Ramz-to-tha-Z]

take 7 or 8 bucks and buy a new tank and keep the old one for spare parts. Problem solved!

I've had that problem aswell only the cause was usually the stopper. Either it dries out and cracks or the screw is not tight enough. I have also tightened it too much and stripped the rear plastic piece. Might this piece be stripped? That would definately cause the problems you describe.

[Vulcan1]

Graham,
You can also purchase a new stopper for the tank. I usuallly install one if I take the tank apart for checking the tubing. If they have the little ridges in the stopper it should be changed. Buy a spare also.
John

[Gary Maker]

Graham

I have used tanks mfg by various companies and have never had a leak. You were probably just unlucky enought to get a bad one. As has been said, for the price of a new tank, just throw out the old one and get a new one. Saves a lot of problems!

Use a small rag soaked with Aceitone and wipe off the oil soaked areas as best you can and let it dry out good. This usually gets rid of most of the oil. If its still quite wet inside the fuse, I've used baby powder or kitty litter poured inside and left for a couple of days and it really helps to soak up the oil as well.

If the oil is on an area that has lifted the covering. Clean it off with the Acetone and use Balsarite to coat the wood and reapply the covering to get it to stick back on properly.

Just a couple of ideas to consider. Good luck getting it flying again!

[Graham]

Thanks Gary... things are coming together again... new tank purchased today.. all oil cleaned up and dried using the IPA.

After a good range check.. I am sure it will be fine.

[scaleguy]

Originally Posted by Graham

all oil cleaned up and dried using the IPA.

Hmm Graham,

I fail to see how a good IPA (India Pale Ale) can soak up oil...... i usually drink the IPA long befor it gets anywhere near any oil.. other then that around my lips!

Sorry for this post... I am feeling rather giddy at this moment... Gary just PM'd me yesterday to tell me my DA50 has arrived and i am stuck here in Chicago!

Well hopefully by Tuesday next week I will have it!

Now if Extreme Aircraft would just come out with the larger Yak 54 for the DA 50 I would just explode!