I am replacing the right wing 13 gal tank in a 1963 7FC-458. It was fabric covered but I see in the 7EC/7FC service manual drawing ( 7-10002) of the Main Wing Tank Installation that a metal top skin was optional. The drawing does not offer great detail but list the part numbers for a stiffener at the trailing edge side of the top skin and the addition of 3 angle braces between spars and ribs. The top skin PN 4-10005, the stiffener PN 1-10018, 3 ea. angle braces PN 2-10001-2. Would anyone have any detailed drawings or photos of these parts both loose and installed?
Champ 7EC/7FC main wing 13 gal tank installation
- Thread starter wesk
- Start date
Bob Turner
Well-known member
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- Apr 4, 2018
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Don't just give up on fabric. It is much lighter, easier to do, and rarely disturbed. I have three Cubs and a Decathlon with fabric covered tanks, and so far not one of them has given me any problem. I think the Decathlon would require metal on both sides to remove the tank.
On the other hand, if you are planning on snap rolls, maybe getting at the tanks every annual is a good idea.
Nice to see the forum alive - I am sure there are opinions that diverge . . .
On the other hand, if you are planning on snap rolls, maybe getting at the tanks every annual is a good idea.
Nice to see the forum alive - I am sure there are opinions that diverge . . .
Hi Wesk, first let me congratulate you on your first post! lol
it's interesting that all of those extra parts are specified just to stabilize that aluminum tank cover.
American Champion has detailed assembly drawings for most of what is on our planes. They range in price from about $40 to $100 depending on the topic and size of the drawing. It's a long shot but they might have a drawing available for what you're asking about. I've never seen an aluminum cover up close so I'm sorry I can't be of more help.
it's interesting that all of those extra parts are specified just to stabilize that aluminum tank cover.
American Champion has detailed assembly drawings for most of what is on our planes. They range in price from about $40 to $100 depending on the topic and size of the drawing. It's a long shot but they might have a drawing available for what you're asking about. I've never seen an aluminum cover up close so I'm sorry I can't be of more help.