Draker
Well Known Member
For those of us who are putting off the engine/fuel injection system decision until later in the build:
I read a whole bunch of topics here which suggested adding 3/8" fuel return fittings to tanks while building them, to future-proof in case you end up going with a FI system that requires return lines. The rationale is it's much easier to do this during the tank build rather than after the fact. If you end up with a fuel injection system that does not require a return line, you can simply cap off the lines at the tank. Also noted that most systems do not require return plumbing.
Now, same question, but during the fuselage build! For those of us who still have not made up their minds, does it make sense to drill extra holes in the side skins, and plumb (potentially un-needed) return lines through to the valve area? Does the same rationale apply, that it's easier plumb these now, instead of when the fuselage is put together?
Keep going upstream: Why not install a duplex fuel selector valve (at extra cost) now, "just in case"?
How much future-proofing makes sense and at what point does the extra system complexity, potential leaks, and extra cost stop making sense? I'd like to avoid re-work if I eventually choose, say, an EFII or similar system, and I'd rather do plumbing while I have great access inside the cabin.
EDIT: Also, not trying to debate the merits of different FI systems here. Just whether or not all this future proofing is worthwhile.
I read a whole bunch of topics here which suggested adding 3/8" fuel return fittings to tanks while building them, to future-proof in case you end up going with a FI system that requires return lines. The rationale is it's much easier to do this during the tank build rather than after the fact. If you end up with a fuel injection system that does not require a return line, you can simply cap off the lines at the tank. Also noted that most systems do not require return plumbing.
Now, same question, but during the fuselage build! For those of us who still have not made up their minds, does it make sense to drill extra holes in the side skins, and plumb (potentially un-needed) return lines through to the valve area? Does the same rationale apply, that it's easier plumb these now, instead of when the fuselage is put together?
Keep going upstream: Why not install a duplex fuel selector valve (at extra cost) now, "just in case"?
How much future-proofing makes sense and at what point does the extra system complexity, potential leaks, and extra cost stop making sense? I'd like to avoid re-work if I eventually choose, say, an EFII or similar system, and I'd rather do plumbing while I have great access inside the cabin.
EDIT: Also, not trying to debate the merits of different FI systems here. Just whether or not all this future proofing is worthwhile.