In our line of operations we often experience a lot of turbulence at low level (we are approved to operate below 500' for aerial dispersal and supply drops).  We also get some long, at times fast, descents.  With this combination of events we have decided that we really want a header tank for a variety of reasons...  We have simulated 'uncovered ports' in ground tests, and do not like the VERY unlikely possibility that it could cause.  By taking the 'Tee'ing of tanks to a low point 'air being sucked' can be limited, but better still a header tank can solve the challenge altogether, provided you are happy with the weight, extra complexity and engineering necessary to fit it into the package!  Also, if you need a return line, as is more and more common, a header tank can avoid you running lines all the way back to the wing tanks... (each individual installation is different and each builder must make their own decisions on what is right for them, and following the original plans is the preferred solution in most cases - we take no responsibility for anybody copying our approach)

We looked at making our own tank, we looked at contracting it out... then we were introduced to the Viking Header Tank... designed for the 701, and they have one designed for the 750 too.  IT is remarkably close to our needs, and can be adapted for the final parts of our project.  So we ordered one.

It is a beautifully crafted 2 gallon (US Gal) tank that comes with a number of options.  Our application is not a standard one, and this was designed for the Viking Engine (based on the Honda Fit block), and we were all really impressed with the customer service from Jan and Samantha.  They dispatched within a matter of hours and the workmanship is outstanding.  

It is really nice when you can chat with somebody technical about such a project and get the support you need about it - and a quality product at the end - the same reason we all deal with Zenith... 

Do take a look at the work that Jan is doing over at http://www.vikingaircraftengines.com/Airplanes/ZENITH.html -  based on the customer service and technical support,we give Jan 'two thumbs up' and look forward to meeting him again at Oshkosh, where we will discuss, without doubt, the finer points of aircraft engines and share our passion - keeping planes in the air, safely.  .  

Views: 3276

Comment

You need to be a member of Zenith Aircraft Builders and Flyers to add comments!

Join Zenith Aircraft Builders and Flyers

Comment by Jonathan Porter on May 17, 2013 at 6:00am

Indeed Charles, thank you for the comment.  As you will note there are several places to get them from.  We are working mainly on the 912iS engine on our next projects and will be installing the same header but with AN6 3/8" lines throughout.  With the carb engine it takes a longer 'unport' to create a problem - and the carbs are always much better at purging air (even quite a lot of it) than the injected engines (any of them) and that is why the header makes so much sense to me!  Take care and fly safe! (

Comment by charles e rehberger on May 16, 2013 at 5:41am
Very nice! When I do pattern work with low fuel in the tanks, I have unported the tanks during steep climb outs, indicated by a drop in fuel pressure (the engine had never hiccuped though!). That header tank is a real nice solution.
Comment by Ron D Leclerc on February 2, 2013 at 10:20pm

Those tanks are available from - http://www.coyote-gear.com/Standard8inch.html for $139 plus optional inlet and outlet bungs!   Very nice tanks... in various sizes!

Comment by Bryan Ekholm on January 25, 2013 at 11:02am

Nice write-up. I think I'll order one myself.

New from Zenith:

Zenith Planes For Sale 
 

Classified listing for buying or selling your Zenith building or flying related stuff...


Custom Instrument Panels
for your Zenith
:

Custom instrument panels are now available directly from Zenith Aircraft Company exclusively for Zenith builders and owners. Pre-cut panel, Dynon and Garmin avionics, and more.


Zenith Homecoming Tee:


Zenair Floats


Flying On Your Own Wings:
A Complete Guide to Understanding Light Airplane Design, by Chris Heintz


Builder & Pilot Supplies:

Aircraft Insurance:

 
 

West Coast USA:

 
Pro Builder Assistance:

 

Transition training:

Lavion Aero

K&S Aviation Services

Aircraft Spruce & Specialty for all your building and pilot supplies!

How to videos from HomebuiltHELP.com

Developed specifically for Zenith builders (by a builder) these videos on DVD are a great help in building your own kit plane by providing practical hands-on construction information. Visit HomebuiltHelp.com for the latest DVD titles.

© 2024   Created by Zenith.Aero.   Powered by

Badges  |  Report an Issue  |  Terms of Service