when the ends of the hoses are not uniform or when there
is an unusual clamping method.
Step 4: Select a method of securing the fire sleeve so
that fire may not propagate around the end of it. The
use of a stainless steel band clamp is the most common
practice, but even manufacturers like Diamond Aircraft
specify the use of stainless steel safety wire as a means
to secure the fire sleeve. When this procedure is used we
recommend using 0.041-inch stainless steel safety wire
with at least two wraps around the ends. The band
clamp method is the most popular. The band clamps can
be purchased separately or as a kit with the installation
tool. The clamps are installed over the end of the fire
sleeve and then inserted into the tool. As the nut is
turned, it simply rolls up the end of the band material
and cinches down around the end of the fire sleeve,
making a fireproof seal. Once the clamp is tight, bend up
the end of the excess band to a 90-degree angle and trim
off the extra material, taking care to eliminate any sharp
edges. A cutoff wheel works well, as long as you don’t
cut into the hose or clamp material.
Step 5: Do not install or reinstall any fire sleeve that is
fuel- or oil-soaked. There are service bulletins and
airworthiness directives (ADs) addressing this specific
topic requiring the replacement of any such fire sleeve. For
example, AD 95-26-13 states in part, … The fire sleeve of
the hose should not be soaked with oil or have brownish or
whitish color, and there should be no evidence of deterioration as a result of heat, brittleness, or oil seepage.
Installation of fire sleeve is a relatively simple process.
With a band clamp tool and your basic shop tools you
should be able to complete the installation on your own
hoses, both improving safety and adding a bit of profes-
sionalism to your firewall-forward installation.
Carol and Brian Carpenter, owners of Rainbow Aviation
Services, teach Light Sport Repairman Maintenance and Inspection
Courses. The couple has co-authored two books. Brian, EAA 299858,
is an airframe and powerplant aircraft mechanic with an inspection authorization rating, a designated airworthiness representative,
a sport pilot examiner, and a certificated flight instructor. Carol,
EAA 678959, is a sport pilot instructor, a private pilot, and an FAA
Safety Team representative. For more information on the repairman
courses, visit www.RainbowAviation.com.
To see a video about fire sleeve, visit
www.EAA.org; click
on Hints for Homebuilders and search for the video entitled
“Firesleeve installation & Removal.”
The Boeing 777’s
Great Great Great
Great Granddaddy
1928 Boeing 40C
;Lustrous foot-deep finish ;Lasts and lasts and lasts ;Easy worry-free repairs 800-362-3490
Randolph Aircraft.com
info@RandolphAircraft.com
The Boeing 40C delivered much more than mail and is
considered the first US airliner. This Randolph-finished
beauty restored by Addison Pemberton is the only 40C
in the world still flying.
