Fuel Tank Tools

SteelMike · #1 12-09-2008, 09:34 PM

Hey guys,

I'm starting to work on fuel lines (in the fuel tanks, that is), and I need your help selecting the correct tools.

I'm looking for an affordable tube flairing tool. Is this what I want (?):
http://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalo...ringtools2.php

I'm also looking for a pipe cutter. How about this one? This one includes a fold-away reamer to remove the burr, right, or do I need a separate reamer (if so, can you recommend one?):
http://www.aircraft-tool.com/shop/de....aspx?PageNo=1

How about a tube bender? This one sounds like a good deal:
http://www.aircraft-tool.com/shop/de....aspx?PageNo=1

Finally, is it worth buying a tool for safety wiring?

If you guys can lend me a hand selecting tools, I'd really appreciate it.

MB

RatMan · #2 12-09-2008, 10:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SteelMike

I'm looking for an affordable tube flairing tool. Is this what I want (?):
http://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalo...ringtools2.php

Looks to be the same as the one I used, not sure if it is as it was a loaner.

Quote:

Originally Posted by SteelMike

I'm also looking for a pipe cutter. How about this one? This one includes a fold-away reamer to remove the burr, right, or do I need a separate reamer (if so, can you recommend one?):
http://www.aircraft-tool.com/shop/de....aspx?PageNo=1

That will do but I used one a lot smaller, not better but smaller. Like this one from RIGID.

You'll need a larger one for the control tubes (elevator/ailerons) though.

Quote:

Originally Posted by SteelMike

How about a tube bender? This one sounds like a good deal:
http://www.aircraft-tool.com/shop/de....aspx?PageNo=1

Almost exactly what I'm using, but this looks a bit better than mine. Good price too.

Quote:

Originally Posted by SteelMike

Finally, is it worth buying a tool for safety wiring?

As apposed to twisting it without a safety wire tool? Absolutely! And of all the tools you have mentioned, you'll use it much longer and more often. Like every time you change your oil. I use safety wire pliers often.

SteelMike · #3 12-09-2008, 10:52 PM

Thanks for the tips. Can you recommend a safety wire tool, too, then? It appears there are a lot of options and I know nothing about safety wiring (someone's gonna mention AC 43.13 soon).

By the way, what about reamers?

Thanks,
MB

RatMan · #4 12-10-2008, 03:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SteelMike

Thanks for the tips. Can you recommend a safety wire tool, too, then?

Here's what I have...with automatic return.

Quote:

Originally Posted by SteelMike

I know nothing about safety wiring (someone's gonna mention AC 43.13 soon).

Here's a quick down and dirty I found using Google, they even mention 43.13.
Even has pictures.....

Quote:

Originally Posted by SteelMike

By the way, what about reamers?

I haven't used reamers but I'm sure someone will help out with this.

rleffler · #5 12-10-2008, 04:49 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SteelMike

By the way, what about reamers?

While not required, reamers do a better job at cutting a nice hole with minimal distorations. Take a look at a hole finished with a drill bit and a reamer under a magnifying glass. The reamer hole will be cleaner.

I use a reamer whenever possible for match drilling, unless one piece isn't already pre-punched obviously. You'll get plenty of use out of a #30 and #40 reamers.

RV6_flyer · #6 12-10-2008, 05:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SteelMike

It appears there are a lot of options and I know nothing about safety wiring (someone's gonna mention AC 43.13 soon).

Thanks,
MB

Here is a FREE Soft copy of AC 43.13-1b with change 1. See Section 7 for info on safety wiring.

http://rgl.faa.gov/REGULATORY_AND_GU...E?OpenDocument

And a paper copy for sale.
http://www.skygeek.com/js312617.html

SteelMike · #7 12-10-2008, 08:51 PM

Thanks guys, already have a copy of AC43.13!

By the way, when I said reamers, I talking about the type that will remove a burr on the inside of the tube after cutting. Not sure what the correct term is for these. Anyone know what I'm talking about?

Thanks a bunch, as usual.

Mel · #8 12-11-2008, 06:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SteelMike

By the way, when I said reamers, I talking about the type that will remove a burr on the inside of the tube after cutting. Not sure what the correct term is for these. Anyone know what I'm talking about?

with a little practice, an Exacto knife works great on aluminum tubing.