Fuel flow test

[Allen Sutphin 705]

Started the fuel flow test this evening.  In a level flying attitude its 20 GPH, gravity flow. Will do the 30 deg nose up flow tomorrow. A new requirement by the powers that be.

[Av8r_Sed 82]

I believe you only need 15 deg up and 15 deg down from level attitude. 30 deg is pretty extreme. Maybe that’s how you roll though. 

[Allen Sutphin 705]

 For people that fly in the mountains (maybe you do too) a quick 30 deg climb is often needed. Maybe not 30 deg but more than 15 deg. If one has good flow at that angle then they can be assured of fuel reaching the carbs or at least the pump. There have been a few instances where Billy Bob Doe buys a copy cub and installs a 180 hp or 210 hp where there was a 0-200 and can't figure out why the engine sputters on a max climb out. Didn't think to upgrade the fuel lines to 3/8" to give proper flow.  Fuel flow checks are always good especially with all the upgraded engines being installed in older airframes. A lot of FAA inspectors don't catch it so it ends up being pilot error as the cause.  Most all newer kits have the fuel lines sized for the max HP engine that could be installed. Older kits, maybe, maybe not.  A lot to inspect when doing a conditional inspection besides the common items on first time aircraft. Gives me a headache sometimes.