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header tank leak

  • Nathan Bissonette
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21 Apr 2024 10:10 #13 by Nathan Bissonette
Replied by Nathan Bissonette on topic header tank leak
I hope I'm not violating the rules of this website, but I'm writing to ask for BAD advice.  Let me explain:

Scroll down the posts to see the "Hardware Hank" repair some prior owner made to the header tank shutoff valve on my 415-C.  The valve is wet and the cockpit smells like gas.  Discoloration indicates the tank itself may be leaking.  

I spoke with my AP and several Ercoupe owners.  I received lots of GOOD advice.  Pull the tank ($1,500) and replace it with one from Univair ($2,800) or have it rebuilt by Safe Skies Aviation in Ohio ($2,000) or drill out all the rivets myself, then clean, patch, reassemble ($??).  Vern at Skyport does not have a servicable used one. 

Okay, that's the Right way to fix it but there goes all the money I set aside for the Annual in June and my insurance in November.  What's the Wrong way?  How about trying to extend the tank life with PRC sloshing sealer - anybody had success with that?  What other low-buck options are there? 

If you don't want to comment on this website for fear of looking like a cheakskate in front of others, email me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  I really appreciate ALL the advice I get from this group.  Thanks in advance.
 

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  • Nathan Bissonette
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01 Apr 2024 15:30 #14 by Nathan Bissonette
Replied by Nathan Bissonette on topic header tank leak
Ken, I found this on another website:

ercoupe.groups.io/g/Tech/topic/52666189?...0::,,,0,0,0,52666189

Does removing the header tank really involve that much work?  I'm amazed you found somebody to do it for so little money.  Who's your A/P?  I'd like to get a quote on mine. 

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29 Feb 2024 15:36 #15 by Larry Snyder
Replied by Larry Snyder on topic header tank leak
If you try to replace a 5 gallon tank with a 6 gallon tank the filler necks are in different places. I’m amazed an A&P would R&R a header tank for $1000!!

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29 Feb 2024 15:34 #16 by Kenneth Crofut
Replied by Kenneth Crofut on topic header tank leak
Talk with your A&P. Mine pulled the header tank, cleaned it, pressure tested and solder fixed three leaks then reinstalled. Total price $1000. He said a new tank created or store bought would result in top cowling where neck goes through not lining up.
 

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29 Feb 2024 06:04 #17 by Larry Snyder
Replied by Larry Snyder on topic header tank leak
No amount of sealer will work for very long. JB Weld isn’t legal. Hate to say it, but the only real solution is pulling the tank and probably repairing/replacing it.

There are places that will build a new tank and use your old filler neck so it’s a “repair”.

Every time I’ve tried putting sealer on a leak it didn’t last very long.

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  • Jerry Nograsek
29 Feb 2024 05:52 #18 by Jerry Nograsek
Replied by Jerry Nograsek on topic header tank leak
Well first I would clean up the entire area and understand where the leak is originating. I would also see if that “fuel valve” is an aircraft part. Looks kind of “Ace hardware”. JB Weld wouldn’t be on my list of repair options

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