This is the cell
http://e30m3performance.com/installs...ell/cell_1.htm
I read the rules the same as Greg and Ryan but what I need clarification on is the "certification" of the fuel cell. I plan on running the stock tank in my car for the first year and then installing the cell I picked up. The cell meets all the requirements: foam filled bladder encased in a .036 steel container, positive locking cap with a vent, etc. However, the cell doesn't have any FIA certification marked on it. Can I use it?
Reminds me of the debate on the SFI rating on driver's suits. Sure your OMP suit is flame retardant but no SFI = SOL and thanks for playing. If this is the case, I will have to buy another fuel cell with the certification painted on it and sell my non-certified one.
Any ideas?
Greg Heuer
ITC Fiesta #92 (in progress)
'65 Beach 5B FV #67
'65 Sardini FV (not yet in progress)
'03 Crown Vic aka "Tackleberry"
"Racing more cubic inches requires more cubic dollars"
The interpretation of the rules to allow non-SFI or FIA fuel cells in IT has been prevalent for years. There are quite a few IT cars using unrated circle track cells. To my knowledge this hasn't been a safety issue. In my own case I would much prefer a circle track style cell to the poorly protected stock fuel tank. Even though lacking FIA certification, these cells have a proven safety history in the rough and tumble stock car world.
In my opinion, a rule "clarification" that would prohibit the common practice of using circle track type cells would be another example of the SCCA fixing a problem that doesn't exist.
Charlie
Item number 4 under 9.3.26 which allows rotary molded cells not having a bladder, or not contained in a metal can in classes (IT) that are not required to have a cell but are allowable as an option.
I most certainly read the earlier part as if a cell is required it must meet the specs, but in classes where they are not there are no specs, especially with the rotary moulded (cheap, no SFI or FIA)cells allowed.
matt
This is a non-rule that should be a personal rule. Use a cell. Easiest way to prevent a catastrophic fire. Saves you, saves your car, saves your competitors. A gutted car that you escaped unharmed from is WAY more expensive than a fuel cell. Rubber bladder in a steel can only. Main thing to think about is how does a factory tank respond upside-down when it's hardest to get out of the car? I personally am skipping buying front struts and new tires this year to upgrade safety equipment.
I agree it is a good idea if you install and plumb it correctly. I think the best thing to avoid the catastrophic fire is a FIRE SYSTEM. Most factory installed fuel tanks are very good especially in the last 10 or so years. I have not seen a ton of cars catching on fire on the highways because of a rollover, they do take this into consideration on the OEM side. As long as your not racing older Chevy trucks or Pintos they seem pretty good. Most of the fires I have seen have been aftermarket part failures or not so good installations of aftermarket pumps and filters etc.
matt
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