Scott wrote:
I can tell you for a fact that a 60 lb imbalance between tanks with them located at the inboard end of the wing panels is quite significant. I tested that condition in my KR. I'd sure hate to have to try to land a KR with a 60 lb imbalance at the wing tips. So I'll ask the question a bit differently. Other than the coolness factor or asthetic look of tip tanks, what would be the motivating factor for moving fuel farther outboard in the wing where it can create a potentially fatal imbalance condition when there is adequate space to build tanks where it can be safely carried closer to centerline? Perhaps I'm just a bit thick, but I don't see the advantage. [Fred Johnson] Scott, there are two reasons I have considered it besides the extra fuel. One, as Pazmany pointed out in his book, safety. The farther away from the occupants fuel is, the less likely it will be an issue if a crash were to happen (excluding, as you have pointed out, being the cause of an accident). Second, is tip tanks have two other advantages; wing tanks increase the effective aspect ratio, and two, they reduce wing tip vortices and hence reduce drag, much like a winglet does. So, besides being able to add more fuel, we have increased the wings efficiency. I'm not saying it doesn't have it's draw backs, I'm just curious as to everyone's comments and experiences with them. also, the T33/ F80 had wing tanks, and the few pilots I have know who flew them didn't indicate any issues with them? perhaps I'm wrong? I can forward a PDF copy of Pazmany's book if you want? Fred Johnson Reno, NV
