Experienced a fuel problem this past weekend --- engine stalled shortly after powering off the mooring. Looking at the primary filter (RACOR glass bowl type) it appeared air was entering the system - I traced back to the fuel tank where I found the dip tube had cracked right at the fitting. Replaced and everything seems ok for now... my questions:
- Right at my primary filter there is a shut off valve. I had inadvertently left this closed when I started the engine. I then noticed the fuel level in the bowl going down, and first I assumed I still had an air leak, then I noticed the valve closed, simply opened it and the filter filled (pump must have pulled a vacuum), engine ran fine after that. Can this in any way damage the mechanical fuel pump? I don't think it ever ran dry, but it was pulling against a closed valve...??
- Is there any way to bleed this engine without someone holding down the start key in the cockpit? Seems to always be a two person job? I hear some mechanical pumps have a manual handle?
- I'm assuming pump is original - 20+ years - how difficult a job to rebuild/replace?
Any advice tips would be appreciated...
Dan
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- Right at my primary filter there is a shut off valve. I had inadvertently left this closed when I started the engine. I then noticed the fuel level in the bowl going down, and first I assumed I still had an air leak, then I noticed the valve closed, simply opened it and the filter filled (pump must have pulled a vacuum), engine ran fine after that. Can this in any way damage the mechanical fuel pump? I don't think it ever ran dry, but it was pulling against a closed valve...??
- Is there any way to bleed this engine without someone holding down the start key in the cockpit? Seems to always be a two person job? I hear some mechanical pumps have a manual handle?
- I'm assuming pump is original - 20+ years - how difficult a job to rebuild/replace?
Any advice tips would be appreciated...
Dan
-