Chief Fuel Tank removal?

[bob turner]

Looks like the engine has to come off first!

I changed our J4 boot cowl so that I can just remove the windshield and unscrew the top portion of the boot cowl - now two hours with an electric screwdriver. Will this work on the Chief?

[Richard Murray]

I can't recall doing a Chief, but the engine should not need to be removed. The windscreen needs to come out first and then the wraparound. (boot cowl as it is commonly known) The plumbing to the tank has to be disconnected and there are two hold-down straps. Biggest issue is drilling out the rivets on the wraparound where it is secured to the firewall.

[bob turner]

Thanks! That's what Paul said as well - and there is a champ in the hangar now with machine screws instead of rivets - great idea!

[bob turner]

Fortunately, younger eyeballs than mine got in there and discovered a crack in the fuel shutoff valve. Owners are ordering a new valve from some Alaska source. What a relief - owner is a relatively inexperienced woman - I should get a photo; everybody would be here to help!