The PA-24 Comanche is a fine airplane, but for the first three years of its production, it held only 60 gallons of fuel, not quite enough for the 250-hp version, which is the reason an extra 30 gallons became available in auxiliary wing tanks by 1961. On the early Comanches, one frequently sees Osborne tip tank installations holding 15 gallons each, and they are sometimes found even when the optional 90-gallon fuel system is installed. The Twin Comanche is also a favorite target for adding wingtip tanks. According to GAMI, very few of the Osborne systems for Navions or Comanches were sold in recent years. The new owners will support existing installations with parts and tech support for as long as possible.
Piper Comanche Tip Tanks
Key Takeaways:
- Early PA-24 Comanches had insufficient fuel capacity (60 gallons) for their 250-hp version, leading Piper to offer an optional 90-gallon system by 1961.
- Aftermarket Osborne tip tanks (15 gallons each) were a popular solution for both single and Twin Comanches, often supplementing even the factory 90-gallon system.
- While new sales of Osborne systems for Comanches have significantly declined, new owners are committed to providing parts and tech support for existing installations.
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