Handling And Storage Of Fuel Cells; Fuel Cell Compartment; Molded Nipple Fittings - Piper Navajo Chieftain PA-31-350 Service Manual

NAVAJO CHIEFTAIN SERVICE MANUAL
4.
Fuel Cell Filler Cap: Inspect large o-ring with a 10x magnifying glass for cuts or cracks.
Replace o-ring if any damage is found. If o-ring is sound, adjust cap per steps a thru d.
(a) Unlock and remove cap from adapter plate.
(b) Tighten 1/4-28 self locking nut at base of cap 1/2 turn (If castle nut is used in lieu of self
locking nut remove chain assembly, adjust nut ½ turn and replace chain assembly).
(c) Lock cap into adapter plate in top of fuel cell.
(d) If cap continues to leak replace cap and return defective cap to manufacturer for repair.
9-7. HANDLING AND STORAGE OF FUEL CELLS.
a. Prevent needless damage by exercising common sense care in all handling of the cells. Folding or
collapsing of cells is necessary to place them in containers for storage, install in airframe cavities and
carrying from place to place. Protect fitting seal surface from contact with cavities during removal or
installation. Use protective covers over fitting seal when practical. Protect cell from tools, hot lights, etc.,
when working around them. Avoid stepping on folds or creases in cells. Do not carry cells by fittings.
Maintain original cell contours or folds when refolding for boxing, rolling to insert in airframe cavities or
handling in the repair area. The cells to be repaired should be placed on a well-lighted table. Maintain
natural contours, if possible, while repairing. Prevent contact with sharp edges, corners, dirty floors or other
surfaces. Repair area must be well-ventilated. Do not stack cells. Inspect cavities and insure cleanliness prior
to installing any cell.
WARNING
Do not permit smoking or open flame near repair area or cells.
b. When storing cells, observe the following rules:
1. Fold cells smoothly and lightly as possible with a minimum number of folds. Place
protective wadding between folds.
2. Wrap cell in moisture-proof paper and place it in a suitable container. Do not crowd cell in
container, use wadding to prevent movement.
3. Stack boxed cells to allow access to oldest cells first. Do not allow stacks to crush bottom
boxes. Leave cells in boxes until used.
4.
Storage area must be dry, 70 ° F. and free of exposure to sunlight, dirt and damage.
5. Used cells must be cleaned with soap and warm water prior to storage. Dry and box as
outlined above.
9-8. FUEL CELL COMPARTMENT.
a. Thoroughly clear the cell compartment of all fittings, trimmings, loose washers, bolts, or nuts.
b.
Round off all sharp edges of the fuel cell compartment.
c. Inspect the fuel cell compartment just prior to fuel cell installation.
d. Tape over all sharp edges and all rough rivets.
9-9. MOLDED NIPPLE FITTINGS. The molded nipple fitting is a lightweight fitting developed for ease in
installation in certain locations in the airplane. In order to get the best service from this type fitting, it is
necessary to exercise certain precautions at the time of installation. The specific precautions other than the
general care in handling are as follows:
a.
Insert the outlet tube finger strainer into the fitting as shown in Sketch "B," Figures 9-2 and 9-3.
b.
Insert the vent tube into the fitting until the end is flush with the inside edge of the nipple.
c. The hose clamp must be clear of the end of the fitting by .250 inch where possible.
d.
Locate the hose clamp on the fabric-reinforced area of the nipple.
Revised: 3/1 1/81
FUEL SYSTEM
2K9