9812-0002-101 – Instrument Technology Corp. (ITC) FAA-PMA Fuel Level Sender for Piper Aircraft
Available now on the Airparts.aero Marketplace.
Overview
The ITC 9812-0002-101 is a high-reliability, FAA-PMA certified fuel level sending unit, engineered as a direct replacement for the original equipment sender on a wide range of Piper aircraft. This flight-critical component provides the essential interface between the fuel in the tank and the cockpit fuel quantity gauge. Its function is to accurately measure the fuel level via a float mechanism and convert this physical level into a proportional electrical resistance signal, which is then interpreted and displayed by the cockpit gauge. Accurate fuel quantity indication is paramount for safe flight planning and execution, preventing dangerous fuel exhaustion scenarios.
Manufactured by Instrument Technology Corp., a leader in FAA-PMA fuel system components, this sender is built to meet or exceed the performance and reliability of the original Piper part. It utilizes a proven resistive float mechanism housed in a durable, corrosion-resistant assembly designed for long-term immersion in aviation fuel. As a fully FAA-PMA approved part, it offers a cost-effective, airworthy solution for replacing worn or inaccurate original senders.
Key Features
FAA-PMA Certified: A fully certified, airworthy replacement for the applicable Piper OEM fuel level sender, backed by rigorous FAA testing and approval.
Direct Replacement: Engineered as a form, fit, and function replacement, ensuring straightforward installation without modification.
Proven Resistive Float Technology: Utilizes a reliable float and variable resistor (potentiometer) mechanism to provide accurate fuel level measurement.
Durable Construction: Built with high-quality, corrosion-resistant materials (e.g., aluminum housing, stainless steel components, fuel-resistant float) for long service life.
Accurate Fuel Indication: Restores the accuracy and reliability of the cockpit fuel quantity gauge system.
Cost-Effective Solution: Provides a certified, high-quality alternative to the OEM part, often at a significant cost saving.
Technical Specifications
Part Number: 9812-0002-101
Component Type: Fuel Level Sending Unit
OEM Manufacturer: Instrument Technology Corp. (ITC)
Certification: FAA-PMA (Replaces applicable Piper OEM part numbers - verify eligibility)
Sensing Technology: Resistive Float / Potentiometer
Material: Aluminum Alloy Housing, Stainless Steel Components, Fuel-Resistant Float Material.
Electrical Output: Variable Resistance (Calibrated to match Piper fuel gauge system).
Aircraft Compatibility
This FAA-PMA sender is eligible for installation on a wide variety of Piper aircraft models, potentially including:
Piper PA-28 Series: Cherokee, Warrior, Archer, Arrow
Piper PA-32 Series: Cherokee Six, Lance, Saratoga
Piper PA-34 Series: Seneca
Piper PA-44 Series: Seminole
Note: This compatibility list is for general reference only. The ITC FAA-PMA supplement and the specific aircraft's Illustrated Parts Catalog (IPC) are the final and absolute authorities for determining installation eligibility for a given aircraft serial number.
Applications
Fuel Quantity Measurement: The primary sensor responsible for measuring the level of fuel in the aircraft's tank.
Cockpit Indication System: Provides the variable resistance signal required by the cockpit fuel quantity gauge.
Direct Replacement: Used to replace failed, inaccurate, or intermittent original equipment fuel senders.
Why Choose 9812-0002-101?
Inaccurate fuel readings are a major safety hazard. The ITC 9812-0002-101 is a brand-new, FAA-PMA certified component that restores the integrity of your fuel quantity indication system. Unlike overhauled or repaired units of unknown history, this new sender provides the reliability and accuracy needed for safe flight operations. Backed by ITC's reputation and the rigorous FAA-PMA process, it offers a high-quality, cost-effective, and airworthy solution to ensure you always have a trustworthy indication of your available fuel.
The fundamental engineering principle of the 9812-0002-101 sender is the potentiometer. Inside the unit, a float arm is mechanically linked to a sliding electrical contact (wiper) that moves along a fixed resistive element. This element acts as a voltage divider. As the fuel level changes, the float moves the wiper across the resistor. The electrical resistance measured between the wiper's terminal and the resistor's ground terminal changes proportionally to the fuel level. This variable resistance directly controls the current flow through one coil of the cockpit fuel gauge (typically a ratiometric instrument), causing the needle to deflect and indicate the measured fuel quantity. The calibration involves ensuring this resistance change corresponds accurately to the fuel levels defined by the aircraft manufacturer.
Note: The 9812-0002-101 is a flight-critical component. Installation must be performed by a certified A&P/IA mechanic in strict accordance with the Piper maintenance manual. It is essential to ensure the correct gasket is used and properly installed to prevent fuel leaks. A post-installation fuel system leak check and calibration/functional check of the fuel quantity indication system are mandatory.
Documentation
Instrument Technology Corp. (ITC) Website: Full eligibility lists (PMA Supplement) and technical data for this FAA-PMA part may be available on the ITC website or through authorized distributors.
Piper Aircraft Maintenance Manual / IPC: Installation procedures, wiring diagrams, and calibration steps are contained within the official Piper manuals for the specific aircraft model.
