37 - Fuel System - Configuring systems brackets and fuel selector

-

For the fuel (and brake) system hoses I am using those made by Aircraft Specialty in order to avoid having to make my own from the Aluminum tubing that is provided in the kit.

As I get a better understanding of which hoses run where, there a three that need to run under the front seat on each side of the airplane

  • two -6 hoses for the fuel system, one out and one return
  • one -4 hose for the brake system
The systems brackets that were previously riveted to the bottom skin are used to route these hoses under the seats, and the plans have you install rubber grommets and aluminum braces to lock everything in place.

As the Aircraft Specialty hoses have a larger diameter than the aluminum tubing (for which I had previously enlarged the guide openings in the systems brackets to accommodate those hoses), I decided to use a 3D printed bracket (once again designed and made available by Allan Glen) that screws into the systems brackets into which the hoses clip perfectly and can be secured with zip ties.


Systems bracket adapter for Aircraft Specialty hoses


After printing 4 brackets in PolyCarbonate, it was a simple matter to screw them into the existing systems bracket holes. I decided to use screws rather than rivets to simplify removal and replacement of the brackets in future if needed.

3D printed brackets screwed to the systems brackets

Torque seal applied!

I also took a little time to make sure I had the correct AN fittings that attach at the tunnel on each side, and connect hoses within the tunnel to those running under the front seats.

AN fittings for fuel and brake lines at the tunnel. The large washers are provided in the fuselage kit.

Next, I finished assembly of the Andair fuel selector. This component is sent with the fittings not fully attached so that they can be reoriented if necessary. After verifying the correct orientation required for the SDS EFII system with outbound and return fuel lines, I screwed the fittings to the fuel selector and stagged (staked) each screw to prevent it from loosening and rotating out. Staking was easily accomplished using an automatic center punch with a couple of blows at each guide notch in the fuel selector body.


Dates:    March 26 2026, June 30 2026 - July 5 2026