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I recall reading such a circular and also conducted
similar tests. Basically you want to test the fuel flow rate, without
pumps, with the plane inclined to the pitch attitude you intend to climb out on
takeoff. The flow rate should be about 150% of the max flow rate required
for a full rich full power takeoff. That would be about 18 GPH for a
360. The max flow rate should be about 27 GPH. Of course if your bird
is fuel injected, gravity flow will do no good but at least you know the system
is not limited for flow rate. You would also test the electrical
pump flow rate. That rate should also be in excess of the maximum needed
for the powerplant. Run the powerplant, on the ground with the plane tied
down and inclined at the steep attitude. The powerplant should not
starve. I did this by putting the plane on an inclined hillside and some
blocks and also tied the plane down to my pickup. It was also necessary to
block the wheels both fore and aft to prevent the plane from rolling
downhill.
Other ground tests were also conducted. ie
flow tests from the mains to the header tank to determine time to fill
header on the ground; time to fill header while engine running at 10.5 GPH and
time for one or two pumps filling the tank. ( I have two lines feeding the
header tank.)
After conducting these tests; I felt confident that
the powerplant would not suffer fuel starvation on climbout. This gave me
great peace of mind, even to this day.
Spend the time testing all possible
scenarios. Record your results in your logbook for future reference and
make appropriate entries in your POH for use in the aircraft.
Bob Smiley
N94RJ
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