The left tank is considered leak free as the balloon had the same shape after 24 hours of testiong. After having installed the test equipment, I noticed a leak on where the return line enters the tank. So I prosealed the place and the test will take place next week.

A quick check in the workshop shows my latex glove lying flat. In fact it was not well sealed to the vent line nipple. So I decide to change the test installation and check for leaks with soapy water.



Here is the new test setup, the little hose allows a better fit on the vent line nipple. Let's wait till tomorrow!!!

I closed the right tank and prosealed all the rivets.



I also begun the leak test on the left tank. The idea is to pressurise the tank with air up to 1 PSI and see if it holds. Then the exterior will be checked with soapy water to check for small bubbles. To pressurise the tank I use the optionnal valve sold by Vans which replace the purge valve for the test. To check if the tank holds the pressure there are two methods : either build a water manometer or just use a slightly inflated balloon. Having no tubing, I opted for the second method, unable to locate my balloons I used one of my latex gloves. It looks very nice and still holds the pressure after 1/2 hour, will see how it is in a few days.

A good part of the working session was used to clean all the clecos. After having bathed them all the night in some thinner, I rub them thorougly and finish the sticky parts with a brush mounted in my drillpress.
I also prepared the left tank for the leak test I'll begin at the end of the week.

Closing of the right tank with special thoughts for the Z-brackets. No to many problems. Sabine gave a hand in clecoing and un-clecoing, helping with the pop rivets and part of the final cleaning.
Here is an explanation for the prosealing of the rear baffle. First a line of sealant on and above the rivet line, then when positionning the rear baffle, it acts like a squeegee and normally forms a fillet on the inside of the tank.



This is a picture of the first fuel bay, and it seems the fillet is here. So at least, this side of the first bay should not leak.