Gascolator

[jmvolpp]

My recently acquired BC12D-1 is the first aircraft I've flown without means to easily drain fuel to check for water, etc. Is it common practice to replace the glass sediment bowl with a quick-drain gascolator or ?

Mike Volpp

[Robert Lees]

Re: Gascolator

Mike, the glass sediment bowl should have a quick-drain valve installed.
I am just overhauling mine right now (well, 5 minutes ago) and mine had a quick-drain valve.

The advantage with the glass is that you can see what's going on inside in terms of sediment/water etc...these solid ones you've got no clue.

If you'd like a photo, I can furnish after I finish painting the metal bits and then re-assemble, but the drain valve should be quite obvious, sticking out the bottom.

Regards,
Rob

[dedrekon]

Re: Gascolator

Here's a gascolator (from an 0-200)....you can see the quick drain on the side. Your's should be there or on the bottom.

[jmvolpp]

Re: Gascolator

Check out the attached photo of the gascolator - coulda come off a 9N Ford!

Would that that was my only question, but that's what makes it so much fun, right? Next one is: how is the fairing, that covers control cables, at the top corner of the panel, removed? I'd like also to partly remove the headliner to work on the front trim pulley, without wrecking the whole thing, and would appreciate any tips.

Thanks again, in advance.

Mike V.

[Hank Jarrett]

Re: Gascolator

There are 2 or 3 tabs on the A pillar (the door hinge tube between the door and windscreen) that "should" have tinnerman nuts on them. Most of the ones I have seen have elastic lock nuts that are a buggar to get a small box wrench on. Mine (a 41 and a 45) both had the small lock nuts and the 45 was a little easier because when I bought it the windshield was smashed out. When I got the windshield frame off they were in plain sight. The 41 was harder and I had to feel around with a small ignition wrench to get on the nut. You should be able to see the screw heads on the trim piece on the inside. When you replace it you can go back with the elastic nuts while the glass is out but it will be a pain to remove later. The Tinnermans allow you to remove the fairing every annual to look around.
Easy now, hard later. A little harder now, easy later. Your choice.
Wish I had seen this message this morning. I just got back from the airport and the whole thing was wide open. I could have taken a picture. I won't be back to the hangar for a week.

[MAC]

Re: Gascolator DRAIN EXTENTION?

Question, on my 46 T-craft I have the gascolator with quick drain. But, I have to reach up and squint into the cowling to find it and usually run some gas down my arm when getting a sample. Has anyone put an extention hose or something to bring it down where it is easy to see and get at?