Amazing Precision
I did the CIES-G3X calibration with my A&P, and we were able to get 39 gal into the tanks after putting in 3 gallons of unusable fuel (this was 0.0 in the calibration table). If you still have capacity beyond 37 gallons, you have to decide what to do. You can either flatten off the calibration curve at 37 or you can add another point or two. I added points for 38 and 39 gallons. If you do the former, you’ll have to burn a couple of gallons before you see any movement on the G3X gauge. Sounds like your shop did exactly the same as I did.
The digital senders connected to a glass panel offer precision that was unimaginable when my bonanza rolled off the assembly line with resistive floats and a small analog gauge.
As it turns out 74 gallons was conservative and we can actually get more in the tanks on a cool day. Whether you account for the extra weight (36 pounds for my situation) at station 75 in you W&B is up to you. I rarely operate near the boundaries of the envelope so I usually ignore the extra few gallons in my W&B (plus I have Foreflight W&B set up with 74 gallons [444 lbs] and have never changed it).
Bottom line, my fuel order is to the tabs, slots, or to the top, and I almost always top them off. Consistency of gauge readings and fuel totalizer/flow meter gives confidence in readings and fuel onboard during flight. Before resetting the Fuel Calculator, I’ll note the fuel used and compare to what was added. It is usually within 0.1 gallon. Amazing precision.
Eric Paterson
Beechcraft Bonanza
Share this:
About CiES Inc.
Established in 2012, CiES is now the largest supplier of aviation fuel quantity probes and senders. They are the recognized leader in the design, development, certification, and manufacture of electronic sensor solutions for original equipment manufacturers, as well as direct-to-market consumer products. Through the creative application of cutting-edge technologies, CiES creates complex end-to-end solutions. This is a company that is changing the game in aviation technology and revolutionizing the way we navigate the skies. Aiming at future growth and innovation, CiES is pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
