The fuel selector valve works in unscreened fuel. Contaminated fuel can cause selector valve seal damage. When fueling from possibly contaminated fuel sources McFarlane recommends the use of a fuel filter, such as Mr. Funnel or another filtering device, to reduce trash in the fuel system.
The most common indication of external fuel valve leaks is the smell of avgas in the cabin. Most valves are located under the cabin floor. Fuel stain on the valve and drain plug or drain valve or on the belly of the aircraft can also indicate external leakage. External leaks are generally around the actuation valve stem. Internal leaks are detected when the fuel is turned off and fuel continues to drip during fuel system maintenance. Inner port leakage will allow fuel from one tank to leak into another fuel tank. This type leak is difficult to detect. Fuel transfer from one tank to another with the fuel valve selected to one tank only will indicate inner-port leakage. An extended period of time is needed to detect fuel transfer from one tank to another. Generally if internal leakage is detected when servicing the fuel system, it is likely there is also inner-port leakage.
We pressure test our repaired valves to a minimum of 5 psi using precision controlled air pressure and a calibrated low pressure indicator. This pressure is above the normal fuel pressure on the valve and below the limits of the springs in the valve. Each valve is submerged in Stoddard solvent while the air pressure is applied to the valve. The valves are then tested in each position to assure that there are no inter-port or external leaks. Leaks are detected by looking for air bubbles escaping from the valve.
Repair Kits
Each kit contains all of the hardware commonly required to reseal and perform a basic repair of a fuel selector valve or fuel shut off valve for Cessna 150 thru 320 aircraft. The kits include seals, springs, Viton o-rings, roll pins, washers, screws, balls, and plugs as required for each specific valve.
Many Cessna fuel selector valves require special tools and processes for reassembly. For your convenience, McFarlane also offers repaired fuel valves. Repaired fuel valves are cleaned, inspected and assembled with all new seals, gaskets, hardware and parts as required. Each valve is repaired by our experienced A&P technicians and pressure tested for leaks and evaluated for proper fuel flow. You receive a "Return to Service" tag to certify the repair.
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