Corrosion in fuel-tank lines

[Debra]

Engine starting and running problems were eventually traced to the fuel tank.The brass fuel line became so badly corroded that it broke off and the plastic fuel line and clunk were lying in the tank, Further the curved vent line in the tank had a hole in it due to corrosion.

I have a number of planes where this could be a problem can you suggest preventative measures to prevent this from happening again.

Bill W.



Dear Mr. W.,

Thanks for sharing your experience regarding corrosion of your fuel tank lines. It is hard to say exactly what may have caused this. I've got aircraft hanging on the shop wall that are 20 years old and older, I.e., Stormer, Taurus, etc., that have not shown any signs of corrosion. Are you leaving raw fuel in the tank following a flying season and then hanging the ship nose down? The use of muffler pressure pumps the by-products of combustion back into the fuel tank and any remaining fuel is going to be contaminated. If you are using an all synthetic fuel you might consider using one with partial castor oil,· i.e., Morgan Omega, Sig, etc.

One other thought. Some of the fuel manufactures are, or have used, nitromethane produced in China. The China nitro has proven to be very corrosive. A change of fuel might be the answer.

Best regards,

Clarence Lee