View Full Version : Removal of bladder tanks (long range) from C206?
CharlieFox_206
27th Jan 2008, 06:55
We use a C206 Soloy (with Allison turbine 250-C20S) for paradrop. Standard fuel tanks are integrated tanks in the wings. Additional tanks are 2 bladdertanks (rubber) in both wings. The last 10 years those 2 longe range tanks has given us a lot of troubles and costs (leaking, fuel imbalance etc.). How is the procedure (administrative, law) to remove those 2 longe range tanks because we don't need them for the operation. Technicaly it seems not a hell of a job but several persons told us that the modification back to standard tanks is an expensive and time taking night mare. Someone experience with this?
Kiwiguy
27th Jan 2008, 08:48
Can't you just seal the additional tanks ?:8
The Allison-powered 206 is one fine aircraft, and yes, the long range tanks can be removed without much difficulty, after which an ammendment to the AFM needs to be completed, to reflect the change.
This is not a problem with FAA registered aircraft....dunno about where you are located/registered.
CharlieFox_206
28th Jan 2008, 08:16
Thanks for the answers sofar. I'm from Europe (Netherlands) and for the technical matters I'm not sure if we have to do with the European regulations (JAR / JAA) or the Dutch national regulations. The aircraft original was equiped with the normal standard integrated tanks and was later modified with 2 bladder longe range tanks. No it's not possible to seal the rubber bladder tanks. Already 2 times our maintenance firm ordered new bladder tanks because of leaks / dry rubber with little cracks. It's really a pain for us and we would be very happy if those tanks (wich we don't need at all!) are removed.
What is AFM? Has someone technical experience with removing bladdertanks on a C206? The reason why I post this topic here is that we have a little discussion about his point with our maintenance firm.
AFM = Airplane Flight Manual.
IF tanks are removed, the fuel selector valves will need to be altered or changed to the prior type, and any aircraft placards modified accordingly.
Not too expensive, if serviceable (rather than new) fuel selector valves are used.
Of course, you could just rip 'em out and plug the lines...who's to know:E:E