Recently I was riding back seat in a PA-151. During a takeoff climb, 400-500 AGL, the engine sputtered. An immediate switch of tanks (from right to left) brought the engine back to life. Pitch was also simultaneously being reduced. Flight was coordinated as far as “off-duty” CFI pilot in right seat could discern and recall. I was not watching the ball myself. However, the takeoff was mistakenly performed on the lowest tank (no comment needed). The remaining climb and short flight was completed on the left tank. Upon landing I sticked the right tank and was surprised to find 8.5 gallons.
Is this possible? Anyone ever unported a tank with that much fuel in a coordinated climb? Any other explanation? Not carb ice. Certainly a fuel issue. Tank was sumped pre-flight and used on prior leg, but not sumped post-flight to check for water.
Is this possible? Anyone ever unported a tank with that much fuel in a coordinated climb? Any other explanation? Not carb ice. Certainly a fuel issue. Tank was sumped pre-flight and used on prior leg, but not sumped post-flight to check for water.
