1981 "F" model. Time to change both inboard tanks; they're leaking. So far we're stuck trying to remove the Left tank. Presumably the Right will be about the same
How are they removed? Two problems: [1] how to unfasten the 4 bottom 'button' fasteners; and [2] how to extract the 'nipple'?
[1] The MM says to 'reach under the tank and to push the button fastener toward the corner of the tank' to release it. How in the world do you get under the tank and into the corner to push the button to release? The tank doesn't have enough 'give' to be moved sufficiently far away from the forward (or aft) bulkhead to get an arm and hand in there (and I have long skinny arms).
It seems the outboard fasteners should be easier than the inboard because the inboard portion of the tank is stiffer due to the extra (zippered) compartment on that end. We tried using a thin notched tool (homemade) to slide under the bladder but couldn't get enough leverage on it to move the fastener. Contributing to the problem is that the bladder seem slightly 'tacky' - wants to stick to the bottom of the tank.
[2] The hard fuel line that extends through the nipple into the tank has a screen on the end of it which protrudes approximately 2" into the tank. This line is six or so inches long and terminates at a coupling in the aft nacelle. This line looks like it won't be removed through the nacelle because of interfering structure. Will the tank nipple slide off this screen / line once the rest of the tank is loose? (The MM doesn't address this.) Since the nipple is inside the zippered compartment, we can't see it, only feel.
The vent line from the filler looks like lots of fun but seems straight forward.
If any of you guys have fought this battle, I'd sure appreciate some advice! Thanks.
How are they removed? Two problems: [1] how to unfasten the 4 bottom 'button' fasteners; and [2] how to extract the 'nipple'?
[1] The MM says to 'reach under the tank and to push the button fastener toward the corner of the tank' to release it. How in the world do you get under the tank and into the corner to push the button to release? The tank doesn't have enough 'give' to be moved sufficiently far away from the forward (or aft) bulkhead to get an arm and hand in there (and I have long skinny arms).
It seems the outboard fasteners should be easier than the inboard because the inboard portion of the tank is stiffer due to the extra (zippered) compartment on that end. We tried using a thin notched tool (homemade) to slide under the bladder but couldn't get enough leverage on it to move the fastener. Contributing to the problem is that the bladder seem slightly 'tacky' - wants to stick to the bottom of the tank.
[2] The hard fuel line that extends through the nipple into the tank has a screen on the end of it which protrudes approximately 2" into the tank. This line is six or so inches long and terminates at a coupling in the aft nacelle. This line looks like it won't be removed through the nacelle because of interfering structure. Will the tank nipple slide off this screen / line once the rest of the tank is loose? (The MM doesn't address this.) Since the nipple is inside the zippered compartment, we can't see it, only feel.
The vent line from the filler looks like lots of fun but seems straight forward.
If any of you guys have fought this battle, I'd sure appreciate some advice! Thanks.
