lml@lancaironline.net Mailing List Archive

Robert,

If there is a "correct" way to install the oil pressure sender, you're supposed to use a restrictor fitting on the engine, a firesleeved hose to a firewall mounted sensor. Oil pressure senders can leak, so using a restrictor fitting is key. Better to have a drip instead of a huge leak. Mounting the sender away from engine vibration will significantly increase its lifespan.

I have a JPI EDM 900 engine monitor and the instructions specifically say "DO NOT MOUNT SENSOR DIRECTLY TO ENGINE" but there's no mention of a restrictor fitting. They specify an Adel clamp around the sensor attached to the firewall.

Vans sells a 45 degree steel elbow restrictor fitting for about $20. Wicks has an inline brass restrictor fitting for about $6. I think a restrictor fitting is a good idea on the fuel pressure sender hose fitting too.

Mike

In a message dated 12/16/09 08:04:56 Mountain Standard Time, lancair-esp@ustek.com writes:

From: mikeeasley [mailto:mikeeasley@aol.com]
Sent: Tuesday, December 15, 2009 8:41 AM
To: lml@lancaironline.net
Subject: Re: [LML] Re: Legacy Crash Watsonville?

I can't think on anything worse than an engine fire and it's important to discuss what to do when you have to deal with an in-flight fire.

When the DAR signed off my GlaStar he pointed to the oil pressure sensor mounted directly to the engine, saying that it was not illegal but . . . the year previous a similar cantilevered positioning resulted in a fatigue failure, the oil spewed out, and when attempting to land the pilot flew into power lines. So maybe perhaps I might want to consider a change. And yeah, I did not move the plane until that was repositioned.

Robert M. Simon

ES-P N301ES