Replacement Fuel Tank Strap 170B

[dav8or]

Does anyone know if there is a source to get a 170B fuel tank strap. When I removed the left tank cover I found the rear tank strap was broken.

If I can't find a replacement, has anyone ever fabricated their own?

Thanks,
Dan LaFon

[schnepel]

To be truthful, early Cessna 172 tank straps (1956 - 1967) should work okay. I have a 140A, and purchased some C-170A/B tanks in order to have long range tanks (I flew aerial power line patrol for over 20 years in a 140A), and used the straps out of an older T-41A (Cessna 172F) to hold the tanks in the wing.

[cessnut]

I have fabricated them. I think I may have used 6061 but I can't remember. The only trick is getting end folded around correctly but it's not that bad. You will need to remove tank of course. You should be able to get a bucking bar between the wing and the fuselage if you are talking the long strap that goes over the tank.

[dav8or]

Tanks are already out. I think I might be able to get a rivet squeezer in there. It is the long strap that broke right at the corner of the tank. I was guessing that I might have to fabricate it. I have access to the tools but I'm not sure yet where I will find the material.

I've looked at other Cessna straps for 172 and they appeared to mount differently so I'm not sure the lengths would be correct.

Thanks,
Dan