Hello All:
Not wishing to hijack Steve Kientz's post I want to pass along a similar problem that happened to me and the solution.
A couple of days ago I went flying with friends and discovered that I had two engines that would only burn off the prime and stop. Both these engines worked flawlessly several day earlier. There was NO changes in anything in regards to plug. fuel, etc. etc. The engines would start first flip and stop after the prime was gone. I have had this happen when a back plate had become loose but this was not the case with these engines.
Due to the high heat and humidity, I packed everything up with the intention of calling it a day. Some days are like that, you got beat! A fellow flying mate Fred Q.,suggested that it may be faulty nva that started leaking. On both engines at the same time? I had nothing to lose so I cut small pieces of fuel line to slip over the junction of the needle and the body of the nva and that solved the problems!
The engines were the same make and model but the nva were different both aftermarket. One was a ST and the other was some type of a right angle RC item that was supposed to be the cat's pajamas. It looked great with the fuel line barb pointing towards the tank.
What is the probability that one would have this happen? This is one of those times that I have learned to accept as pure magic and get on with my life! Lol What caused the nva to begin leaking air around the needles, I have no idea!
Spent the rest of the day having fun.
If you have also had moments like this, please share them with us. Perhaps this could lead to material for the tv program, Unexplained Mysteries. Lol
Have a good day,
Frank McCune