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 Comanche models (60-gallon fuel) had insufficient range for the 250-hp version.
- To address fuel limitations, Piper offered an optional 90-gallon system, and aftermarket Osborne tip tanks (15 gallons each) were a common addition for Comanches and Twin Comanches.
- Although new sales of Osborne tip tank systems for Navions and Comanches are rare, support for existing installations will continue.
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