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I switch tanks as seldom as possible, it is a mechanical device that may fail, and typically will do so as it is switched. My mechanic is in strong agreement in that regard.

So, small differences in tank quantities will not drive me to flip tanks, especially before critical segments like takeoff or on approach, and I start and takeoff on the tank currently selected. I will plan out my switches at cruise, to leave an appropriate balance of fuel before approach.

Loss of fuel during the takeoff period is a critical matter that can ruin your whole day. Loss of fuel feed after a switch (due to a clogged vent, etc.) when safely at cruise is a lesser problem.

Of course if the plane has been inactive for some time, or is spending a lot of time outside and unhangared, I probably would lean more in the opposite direction.

In any case, I accept that there are two valid points of view on this.

* Orest

<blockquote data-quote="Orest @ CYFD" data-source="post: 85665" data-attributes="member: 777">I switch tanks as seldom as possible, it is a mechanical device that may fail, and typically will do so as it is switched. My mechanic is in strong agreement in that regard.So, small differences in tank quantities will not drive me to flip tanks, especially before critical segments like takeoff or on approach, and I start and takeoff on the tank currently selected. I will plan out my switches at cruise, to leave an appropriate balance of fuel before approach.Loss of fuel during the takeoff period is a critical matter that can ruin your whole day. Loss of fuel feed after a switch (due to a clogged vent, etc.) when safely at cruise is a lesser problem.Of course if the plane has been inactive for some time, or is spending a lot of time outside and unhangared, I probably would lean more in the opposite direction.In any case, I accept that there are two valid points of view on this.* Orest</blockquote>

[QUOTE="Orest @ CYFD, post: 85665, member: 777"] I switch tanks as seldom as possible, it is a mechanical device that may fail, and typically will do so as it is switched. My mechanic is in strong agreement in that regard. So, small differences in tank quantities will not drive me to flip tanks, especially before critical segments like takeoff or on approach, and I start and takeoff on the tank currently selected. I will plan out my switches at cruise, to leave an appropriate balance of fuel before approach. Loss of fuel during the takeoff period is a critical matter that can ruin your whole day. Loss of fuel feed after a switch (due to a clogged vent, etc.) when safely at cruise is a lesser problem. Of course if the plane has been inactive for some time, or is spending a lot of time outside and unhangared, I probably would lean more in the opposite direction. In any case, I accept that there are two valid points of view on this. * Orest [/QUOTE]

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