Fuel tank options
Like all aspects of the Panther we give you some options. This is one of the reason it is such a versatile aircraft. Below are a few options to consider before building fuel tanks.
Capacity
Fuel tank capacity is the first option to choose. You can have 10.5 gal per tank for 21 gal total or 13.5 for 27 total. Each tank “bay” is roughly 2.7 gal. The original design for the LSA, and smaller engine Panthers called for 21 gal capacity (10.5 gal per side). A Panther with a Corvair, 0-200, or Jabiru will have a cruise fuel burn of 5-6.5 gal per hr. (or less ) All of the engines will cruise at 150 mph true or more @ 8000 ft. DA. This gives a 2.5 hr. endurance, with a 1 hr. reserve. (We consider a 1hr reserve min for sport flying.) This gives a solid (real) 375 mile range. If you routinely want more than 375 range capacity build the 27 gal tanks.
Note: The kit comes with 27 gal skins. You would simply seal of the outermost bay of the tank for 21 gal operation.
Aerobatic Options
Flop tubes for inverted fuel systems are another option. They allow positive fuel pick up in almost any attitude except extreme nose down angles. The Panther Builds speed so quickly in this attitude that the power must come back and the nose raised within a few seconds to avoid violating VNE, so this attitude isn’t a problem.
If you are not adding fuel injection or a TBI (Ellison, Rotec) you have no need for flop tubes. They slightly complicate the build, require capacitance fuel senders, and the flop tubes need to be replaced every 5 years per manufacturer’s suggestions.
Note: if you choose the flop tube option see supplemental instructions and incorporate during tank build.
Other Options
Smoke Tanks
Another “Possible” Option would be to build one, or two of the shorter tanks, at 10.5 gal capacity and use the out board 2.7 gallon bay for a smoke oil tank. This keeps the messy oil out of a tank in the cockpit which is hard to fill etc. Contact SPA directly for advice and parts to needed for this “possible” option.
Sending Units
Alternate fuel level sending units, such as capacitance rod or plates, or something more compatible with your choice of instruments system. Use manufactures suggestions for installation.