South African fuel system modification

[Smaehr]

Anyone other than those with a South African T-6 had the fuel system modified to the design they came up with to simplify the system? Basically they tie the right tank into the left, eliminate the left tank vent, and eliminate the fuel selector valve or convert it to a simple shutoff valve. I understand it does not require an STC.

[51fixer]

Anyone other than those with a South African T-6 had the fuel system modified to the design they came up with to simplify the system? Basically they tie the right tank into the left, eliminate the left tank vent, and eliminate the fuel selector valve or convert it to a simple shutoff valve. I understand it does not require an STC.

FAA won't let that setup fly in Standard Category. Requires change back to normal for all I have known.

[C.6-60]

Hello Smaehr,
It sounds like you have some operational questions about the AT-6.
Hopefully you are a new owner and if you are congratulations!
If not and you are just interested in the T-6 from a maintenance perspective that's great too.

The Type Certificate Data Sheet is an important document for all FAA certified aircraft.
The T-6 sheet is A-2-575 revision 16
The Data Sheet covers all aspects of legally operating this aircraft under its certification type.
Such as but not limited to:
New C.G. Range, New Max Weight, Control Surface Movements, Required Placards, etc., etc.,
Here is how to get your copy:

Go to this link:
http://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guida ... t?OpenPage

On the left column click "By Make (TC Holder)"
Tab "B" For Boeing
Then click on "The Boeing Company"
Scroll down until you see T-6
Click on A-2-575 revision 16
Now you will have a copy.

In my opinion it is worth keeping your aircraft as close to these specifications as possible.
You never know what FAA representative might have a copy in his hand as he does an inspection of your aircraft at the next airshow you attend.

And finally and maybe most importantly, if by some bad luck you have to get your insurance provider involved in any check writing, They may decide to see if you have been operating your aircraft legally.

This is just my 2 cents worth, but I hope it helps.
Stay Safe,

Vincent

[jdankos]

There is an STC for the South African setup. I am not sure how many have used it.

[C.6-60]

Hello jdankos,

In my experience, almost any change done to an airworthy standard that can be proved to enhance "safety of flight" can be accomplished with a one time FAA field approval requiring a 337 form "and" an accommodating FAA representative.

Best of luck,

Vincent

[Smaehr]

Sergeant,

I have owned a SNJ-5 for about a year and a half and have been trying to learn everything I can on it. I have a digital copy of all of the old NATA magazines and read there about the SA fuel system modifications. According to the NATA article, the SA mod can be done using the 337 process. As you are probably aware, there a lot of stories regarding failure of the fuel cock/selector valve. I am interested in hearing from anyone that has made the change to the SA system.

[jdankos]

I would also look at the stc'd fuel valve from CJ aviation. It is based on the andair valves.

[Stoney]

I'm pretty sure that the STC for that fuel system can be had from: tristatewarbirdmuseum@fuse.net

Also see my ad for a differrent T-6 valve in the warbirds parts market