Fuel Tank Stick

[EJWash]

Anyone have reference to marking a stick for determining fuel level during preflight?

 

[Bob Turner]

I have a Decathlon stick - does that help? I can post dimensions.

 

[EJWash]

I have a Decathlon stick - does that help? I can post dimensions.

I'm sorry, Bob. I should have been more specific. I have a 1975 8KCAB, so yes, your dimensions will help! Thanks you!

 

[Bradc16]

I would like these dimensions as well. The stick with my 74 8KCAB is just a blank dowel.

 

[Bob Turner]

Okay. If I don't bring a stick home tomorrow holler at me.

 

[Big Ed]

I'll post mine too.

 

[Bob Turner]

Oops. The one I brought home only goes to 14 gals. I shall do better tomorrow.

Of course, I am usually not interested in fuel above 30 gallons, since it is usually full if above that. Check back tomorrow.

 

[EJWash]

Oops. The one I brought home only goes to 14 gals. I shall do better tomorrow.

Of course, I am usually not interested in fuel above 30 gallons, since it is usually full if above that. Check back tomorrow.

I appreciate the effort! I take it that you index 30-gallons to target arco weight?

 

[Bob Turner]

They all stop at 14 - I guess I am always happy if above 30 gals on board. Really easy to further calibrate - just dip, then compute how many gallons you need to add for your chosen mark.

 

[Bob Turner]

That’s 3 1/4” from 4 to 14, with more or less even gradations. Ever so slightly more space between 10/11/12 gals. Right at 5/16” for the rest.

Do not know what an “arco” weight is. Empty, zero fuel, and gross weight are the terms I am used to.

 

[Big Ed]

"Acro weight" is sometimes used to refer to half tanks, eg 10 gallons per side, in a Decathlon. That fuel level usually permits flight by 2 grown ass men without over-grossing by a significant amount. My old 150CS had tabs in the necks for half full. My new Super D does not.

 

[Bob Turner]

Thanks. Was thinking of an oil co.

 

[EJWash]

"Acro weight" is sometimes used to refer to half tanks, eg 10 gallons per side, in a Decathlon. That fuel level usually permits flight by 2 grown ass men without over-grossing by a significant amount.

What Big Ed said.

 

[EJWash]

They all stop at 14 - I guess I am always happy if above 30 gals on board. Really easy to further calibrate - just dip, then compute how many gallons you need to add for your chosen mark.
View attachment 4238

Thanks Bob!

 

[Big Ed]

Finally got around to taking a picture of my fuel stick. It came with the plane, so I have no knowledge of the process used to calibrate, but it seems to correspond fairly well to my calculations.

 

[EJWash]

Thanks Big Ed!