cleve_thompson
Well Known Member
I replaced the original fuel valve lever with the pretty anodized fuel valve lever II from Van's but which can also be ordered from Cleaveland Tools. Instead of having a flat side to match the valve stem, it has a set screw to keep it from turning on the stem. I worried about what would happen if this screw loosened so I put Locktight on the screw.
Well, the unthinkable happened yesterday! When I was switching tanks before landing, the handle moved the valve a short distance and then started slipping. I worked with it and finally got it to more to a detente but I had no idea what the valve was turned to. I was really scared being that I was 10 miles from the nearest airport. I made it but I never want that to happen again!
I have since replace the pretty lever with the old one that I have ground off the nose of and will NEVER look back. I think the potential for a catastrophe using the lever called FUEL VALVE LEVER II in the Van's catalogue is too great! I have discussed this with builder's support at Van's but I don't know what disposition they will make about continuing to stock this level
This is the way the lever is listed in the Van's catalogue. Part number FUEL VALVE LEVER II
Replacement for stock handle on fuel valves supplied in kits. Pointer direction can be set to work with any vintage installation. Red Anodized finish.
There is another listed as Fuel Valve Lever I but was not available when I ordered. It has a flat side but will work only if the valve is plumbed a certain way.
Well, the unthinkable happened yesterday! When I was switching tanks before landing, the handle moved the valve a short distance and then started slipping. I worked with it and finally got it to more to a detente but I had no idea what the valve was turned to. I was really scared being that I was 10 miles from the nearest airport. I made it but I never want that to happen again!
I have since replace the pretty lever with the old one that I have ground off the nose of and will NEVER look back. I think the potential for a catastrophe using the lever called FUEL VALVE LEVER II in the Van's catalogue is too great! I have discussed this with builder's support at Van's but I don't know what disposition they will make about continuing to stock this level
This is the way the lever is listed in the Van's catalogue. Part number FUEL VALVE LEVER II
Replacement for stock handle on fuel valves supplied in kits. Pointer direction can be set to work with any vintage installation. Red Anodized finish.
There is another listed as Fuel Valve Lever I but was not available when I ordered. It has a flat side but will work only if the valve is plumbed a certain way.