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TO ALL NAVION OWNERS:
If you own a Navion, it is certain that you will be interested
in what Wing Tip Tanks can do, from the standpoint of
transferring rearward loaded aux fuel, to the center of gravity
at the wing tip. If you are without an existing auxiliary fuel
system, you will be even more interested in our OSBORNE 20
gallon Wing Tip Tanks. Even on short flights, for example from
point A to point B and returning without having to refuel at
point B, not to mention the fuel savings when topping off with
low priced fuel.
OSBORNE, formerly Brittain Industries, pioneered the development
of wing tip tanks for civilian aircraft many years ago.
Recently, we developed a completely redesigned wing tip tank (20
gallons each) for the Navion, Twin Navion, Bonanza and (15
gallon) tip tank for the Single and Twin Comanche. The all
aluminum 20 gallon wing tip tank, is streamlined and smooth,
with recessed Nav/Strobe lights, a flush filler well and
concealed drain. By means of drop hammer dies, the shells are
formed of heat treated aluminum which is hardened to resist
dents and distortion. The tank is assembled with flush welds,
eliminating any raw edges or flanges protruding into the line of
flight. We consider this tank aesthetically and aerodynamically
outstanding. Its appearance and design is such that Princeton
University Research Center chose our tank for external fuel
cells on a ground effect vehicle that was under development.
Salient features of the installation are simplicity of the
mounting of the tank which requires no rework of the wing
whatsoever. Fuel lines are readily routed on the external
surface of the rear spar in the aileron and flap bay. The fuel
system is a direct feed system with manually operated
four-position selector valve. A unique aileron balancing method,
which eliminated the external bob-weight beneath the wing of the
Navion, is utilized.
The aerodynamic efficiency of the airplane itself is improved by
addition of the new style tip tank. Proof of this statement is
found in carefully controlled FAA Flight Tests which established
enough end plate effect, and consequent improvement in rate of
climb, as to allow for additional gross weight increase of 250
pounds (See Table 1). Further proof of additional lift is found
in the fact that those Navions equipped with stall warning
devices require relocation of the actuator on the leading edge
of the wing to compensate for the increased angle of attack of
the wing required to produce a stall with the OSBORNE tanks in
place on the tip.
An increase in cruising speed is obtained as a result of
increasing the lift where, at high altitudes in thinner air,
on-the-step performance occurs even at the lower indicated air
speed. Furthermore, the fact that the weight carried in the
OSBORNE Wing Tip Tank is precisely at the c.g., eliminates the
disadvantages of under-seat or baggage compartment fuel
installations wherein one is conscious of a rearward loading
condition. Owners who have installed the OSBORNE Tank will
attest to an overall increase in cruising speed of 4-6 mph.
Another outstanding feature is the increased stability, which
results from the installation of wing tip tanks. This can best
be compared with a tight-rope- walker who carries a long pole
that is weighted at either end. Without it, he surely will
topple to one side or the other. Although the Navion is an
outstanding stable aircraft, the increased stability and the
“feel” that results from the addition of wing tip tanks gives
the airplane the feeling of a light Twin and can only be fully
appreciated by flying a Navion that is so equipped.
All in all, you find that the installation of the OSBORNE Wing
Tip Tank is a great step toward the improvement of the
performance of and utilization of the Navion and a definite
stride in the modernization of what is basically a very fine
airplane. The increase in resale value of Navions so equipped
makes it obvious that this is an improvement and rather than an
expenditure. The total weight added by the modification is only
20 pounds. The allowable increase in gross weight in 250 lbs.
(see Table). One can readily see that the net increase is an
appreciable increase in pay-load.
The OSBORNE Wing Tip Tank is produced under careful quality
control and FAA Parts Manufacture Approval. The kits come complete with
tubing and all necessary hardware and fittings. There are no special
jigs or complicated blueprints required. The installation is a
recommended 16-25 man hour job, is straight forward and simple enough to
be accomplished in the field by the average mechanic. For more
information write or call:
J. L. OSBORNE Incorporated
18173 OSBORNE Road
Victorville, California 92394
Telephone Number (800) 963-8477
or (760) 245-8477
Fax number: (760) 245-5735
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