Piper Dakota Maintenance Manual page 295

GENERAL
The fuel system components covered in this chapter consist of the fuel tanks, selector valve, filter screens,
fuel pump, and quantity transmitter units. Instructions are given for fixing problems which may arise in the
normal operation of the fuel system.
DESCRIPTION
The fuel system incorporates two 38.5 gallon fuel tanks, one in each wing for a total capacity of 77
gallons, 72 gallons of which are useable. The tanks are attached to the wing leading edge with screws and are
an integral part of the wing structure. This allows removal for service. An auxiliary electric fuel pump is
provided in case of an engine driven pump failure. A rocker type switch for controlling the electric pump is
located on the switch panel above the throttle quadrant. The electric pump should be on for take-off, switching
tanks, and landing.
The fuel tank selector allows the pilot to control fuel flow to the engine and is located on the left side wall
below the instrument panel. It has three positions: OFF, LEFT TANK, and RIGHT TANK. The valve
incorporates a safety latch which prevents inadvertently selecting the OFF position.
Each tank has an individual quick drain located at the bottom inboard rear corner. The fuel strainer also
incorporates a quick drain which is located in the left front corner of the firewall. The quick drain protrudes
from the cowling to allow draining of fuel strainer. All three drains must be drained before every flight and the
fuel checked for contamination.
The fuel tanks are vented individually by a vent tube which protrudes from the bottom of the wing at the
rear outboard corner of each fuel tank. Check the vent periodically to ensure that it is not obstructed.
Fuel quantity and pressure are indicated on gauges located in the instrument cluster to the left of the switch
panel.
TROUBLESHOOTING
Troubles peculiar to the fuel system are listed in chart 2801 along with their probable causes and suggested
remedies.
PIPER AIRCRAFT
PA-28-236
MAINTENANCE MANUAL
2A19
28 - 02 - 00
Page - 28-01
Reissued: August 1, 1986