Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

12.9
12.9.1

(ATA 28) FUEL

Introduction

Fuel is contained in two integral main wing tanks designated No. 1 and No. 2. The fuel system
provides for indicating, storing, venting, fuel feeding and scavenging, refueling/defueling, and
transferring. Only tank to tank transfer is available; there is no engine crossfeed capability. The
aircraft may be gravity or pressure refueled.
12.9.2

General

A fuel gauging system supplies quantity data to the flight compartment and refuel/defuel panel
for display. Fuel quantity may also be checked on the ground by use of the magnetic dipsticks.
Each wing tank includes a surge bay and a collector bay. The left tank supplies fuel to the left
engine and the optional Auxiliary Power Unit (APU). The right tank supplies fuel to the right
engine. A vent system keeps the air pressure in the fuel tanks between structural limits.
Fuel can be transferred between the tanks for lateral balancing or for fuel management. A single
point pressure refuel/defuel system shares selected common components with the fuel transfer
system. Gravity refueling may also be done through two overwing fuel filler points.

Page 1

Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

12.9.3

Controls and Indications - Fuel

Page 2

Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

PFD

NAV

SYS
ENG

MFD1

NORM

ELEC
SYS

ENG
SYS

FUEL
SYS

DOORS
SYS

ALL

TEST

ED BRT

NAV

SYS

MFD2

NORM

EFIS
ADC
SOURCE

EFIS
ATT/HDG
SOURCE
OFF

Figure 12.9-1 Engine and System Integrated Displays Control Panel (ESCP)

Page 3

PFD

ENG

Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

ESCP CALLOUTS PERTAINING TO FUEL ITEMS

1. MFD 1 REVISION SELECTOR (4 position, rotary action)
TURN - selectable positions are PFD, NAV, SYS, ENG
- ESCP provides the pilot with the ability to select any page on the MFD1 and to control
the EIS reversion after display failures
2. FUEL SYS PUSHBUTTON (momentary action)
PUSH - provides a display of the fuel system page on the MFD (upper area) with MFD 1 or
MFD 2 set at SYS
- there is no action with another push
PUSH AND HOLD - (with both MFDs not set to SYS)
- fuel system page shown on the Engine Display (ED)
- ED images are shown again when the pushbutton is released
3. MFD 2 REVISION SELECTOR (4 position, rotary action)
- same as MFD1 selector except selects pages on MFD2

Page 4

Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

Figure 12.9-2 Fuel Control Panel

Page 5

Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

FUEL CONTROL PANEL CALLOUTS

1. TANK 1 AUX PUMP SWITCHLIGHT (alternate action)
PUSH - ON segment (green)
- activates auxiliary fuel pump in left collector bay
PUSH - ON segment (out)
- deactivates auxiliary fuel pump in left collector bay
ON segment (green) without pushing
- auxiliary fuel pump has been activated by the fuel transfer system (TANK 1 to TANK 2)
2. FUEL TRANSFER SWITCH (three position, lever latched)
TO TANK 1 - activates transfer system to transfer fuel from tank No. 2 to tank No. 1
CENTER - transfer system deactivated
TO TANK 2 - activates transfer system to transfer fuel from tank No. 1 to tank No. 2
3. TANK 2 AUX PUMP SWITCHLIGHT (alternate action)
- same as TANK 1 AUX PUMP switchlight, except auxiliary pump in No. 2 collector bay
ON segment (green) without pushing
- auxiliary fuel pump has been activated by the fuel transfer system (TANK 2 to TANK 1)

Page 6

Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

FUEL

VALVE

TRANSFER SW

CLOSED
TO
TANK1

3
2
1

QTY
LBS
x1000
0
7

TANK

VALVE

5
6

+20C

CLOSED
TO
TANK2

OFF

TANK1
AUX PUMP

TANK2
AUX PUMP

SW

SW

OFF

ON

3
2

QTY

LBS
x1000
0
7

TOTAL FUEL
4800 LBS

5
0 5
10
FLAP
DEG

HYD PRESS
PSI x 1000
PK
BRK STBY 1
2

35

HYD QTY
% x 1000

4
2
0

Figure 12.9-3 MFD2 Fuel Page - Quantity Indications

Page 7

Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

MULTI FUNCTION DISPLAY (MFD) FUEL PAGE CALLOUTS

1.AUXILIARY FUEL PUMPS SWITCH ANNUNCIATOR
OFF segment (white text surrounded by a white box)
- the respective TANK 1 or TANK 2 AUX PUMP switchlight is not in the depressed position
ON segment (reverse video, black text on green background)
- the respective TANK 1 or TANK 2 AUX PUMP switchlight is in the depressed position
-

white dashes replace the text (without a box), when no data is available

2. DIGITAL DISPLAY OF FUEL TANK TEMPERATURE

(digital value and TANK segment in white, C segment in blue)
indicates temperature in left collector bay with a sign
- if using JET B/JP-4 and TANK temperature is more than 35C, maximum altitude is
20.000 ft
- indicates from -99 to +99 in 1 increments
- digits are replaced by white dashes when the data is not valid
3. ANALOG DISPLAY OF FUEL QUANTITY
- gives an analog readout of fuel quantity in the left and right tanks
QTY segment (white)
KGx1000 segment (cyan)
Scale and digit segments (white)
- scale marks and digits are removed when the parameter is not valid
Pointer segment (white) - normal
Pointer segment (yellow) - during an imbalance condition
- removed when the parameter is not valid
4. TANK AUXILIARY PUMP PRESSURE STATUS INDICATOR
Circle segment (white outline with black fill) - low or no pressure
Circle segment (white outline with green fill) - normal pressure
5. DIGITAL DISPLAY OF TOTAL FUEL QUANTITY
(digital value and TOTAL FUEL in white, KG segment in blue)
- total fuel quantity given in KG
- indicates from 0 to 15000 in 5 KG increments
- digits are replaced by white dashes when the data is not valid

Page 8

Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

2
FUEL

VALVE

VALVE

TRANSFER SW
TO
TANK1

OPEN

3
2
1

QTY
LBS
x1000
0
7

TANK

5
6

+20C

0 5
10
FLAP
DEG

TO
TANK2

TANK1
AUX PUMP

TANK2
AUX PUMP

SW

SW

OFF

ON
OFF

OPEN

3
2

QTY

LBS
x1000
0
7

TOTAL FUEL
4000 LBS

HYD PRESS
PSI x 1000
PK
BRK STBY 1
2

35

HYD QTY
% x 1000

4
2
0

Figure 12.9-4 MFD Fuel Page - Transfer Indications

Page 9

Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

MULTI FUNCTION DISPLAY (MFD) FUEL PAGE CALLOUTS

1. FUEL SHUTOFF VALVE ANNUNCIATOR
- indicates shutoff valve state in response to a crew transfer request
VALVE segment (white)
CLOSED segment (white in upper white outline rectangle)
- indicates fuel transfer valve is closed
OPEN segment (reverse video, black text on green in lower rectangle)
- indicates fuel transfer valve is open
- when the valve is neither fully closed nor fully open (typical case during valve transition),
nothing is displayed
- three white dashes are displayed instead of the CLOSED and OPEN indication when no
data is available
2. FUEL TRANSFER SWITCH INDICATION
- indicates the position of the FUEL TRANSFER switch on the FUEL CONTROL panel
TRANSFER SW segment (white)
TO TANK 1 and TO TANK 2 segment (white)
Triangle segment (white in white outline rectangle)
- pointing towards the left indicates that a transfer is active from right to left
- pointing towards the right indicates that a transfer is active from left to right
- in case of inconsistency (transfer fault towards both sides), both triangles are displayed
as the data is received
- three white dashes are displayed when no data is available
OFF segment (white in white outline rectangle)
- indicates no fuel transfer is requested

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Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

MCR
75%

MCR
75%

TRQ
%

BLEED
NH

75

%RPM

BLEED
NH

75

92.3

%RPM

92.3

PROP
RPM

850

FF

850

FF

PPH

1020

----

ITT
C

NL

NL

%RPM

%RPM

755

74

PPH

755

74

[ BALANCE ]
C
50

OIL

PSI
50

FUEL
1020 LBS 1625
+18 C +18

SAT

C
75

OIL

PSI
50

+22C

Figure 12.9-5 ED Fuel Parameters

Page 11

Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

ED CALLOUTS PERTAINING TO FUEL ITEMS

1. FUEL FLOW INDICATOR
(FF and digital value in white, PPH or KG/H in blue)
- indicates from 0 to 9990 in 10 PPH or 5 KG/H increments
- digits are replaced by white dashes when the data is not valid
2. [BALANCE] MESSAGE (yellow, flashings)
- indicates a fuel imbalance condition is detected by the left or right Fuel Gauging Computer (FGC1 or FGC2)
3. LEFT/RIGHT FUEL TANK QUANTITY DIGITAL VALUE
(Digital value white, yellow if imbalance, KG in blue)
- total fuel quantity given in KG
- indicates from 0 to 9990 in 5 KG increments
- digits are replaced by white dashes when the data is not valid
4. LEFT/RIGHT FUEL INLET TEMPERATURE DIGITAL VALUE
(Digital value in white, yellow, or red, C segment in blue)
- indicates temperature of the fuel with a sign, after it has passed through the Fuel Oil
Heat Exchanger (FOHE)
- indicates from -99 to +99 in 1 increments
- digits are normally displayed in white
- digits will turn yellow if the temperature is below 0C
- digits will turn red if the temperature is above 71C
- digits are replaced by white dashes when the data is not valid
- continuous operation with fuel heater outlet temperature below 0C or above 71C is prohibited.

Page 12

Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

IN USE

1
2
3
1
2

4
STOWED

1
3

4
A

Figure 12.9-6 Magnastick Operation Locator

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Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

MAGNETIC DIPSTICK CALLOUTS AND OPERATION

1.MAGNATIC DISPSTICK MAGNET
2.FLOAT MAGNET
3.FUEL LEVEL IN MAIN TANK
4. CALIBRATED MAGNETIC DIPSTICK
- the magnetic dipsticks give an alternate means to measure the fuel quantity when the aircraft
is on the ground
- the magnetic dipstick is accessed at the bottom of the wing
- when the rod is released, it moves slowly down until the rod magnet is attracted by the float
magnet
- the fuel quantity is shown in US gallons or in liters
- the reading will indicate full whenever the tank is more than 700 U.S. Gal (2700 L)
- the reading will indicate empty whenever the tank is less than 100 U.S. Gal (400 L)

Page 14

Figure 12.9-7 Refuel/Defuel Panel (1 of 2)

Page 15

4
3

TEST

3100
3100
6200
LB

DECR

INCR

GROUND CREW
JACK

RESET

PRESEL

TANK 2

TANK 1

FUEL QTY

REFUEL

PRESELECT
REFUEL

OFF

TANK 1

DEFUEL

PRESELECT
DEFUEL

CLOSE

OPEN

TANK 2

REFUEL SHUTOFF
TANK 2

DUMP VALVE OPEN

TANK 2

PRECHECK

REFUEL SHUTOFF
TANK 1

DUMP VALVE OPEN

TANK 1

Component located on
right Nacelle only.

NOTE

6
Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

REFUEL/DEFUEL PANEL CALLOUTS

1.REFUEL/DEFUEL INDICATOR (RDI)
2. PRESELECTED FUEL QUANTITY
- desired amount of fuel for processing a refueling or defueling operation, as set by the
INCR/DECR switch
3. TANK 2 ACTUAL FUEL QUANTITY
4.TANK 1 ACTUAL FUEL QUANTITY
5. MASTER VALVE INDICATOR LIGHT (amber)
- master refuel/defuel valve is closed
- turning selector switch from OFF will open the valve and light will go off
6. TANK 1/TANK 2 DUMP VALVE LIGHT (amber)
- vent/dump valve related tank is open
7. TANK 1/TANK 2 REFUEL SHUTOFF VALVE LIGHT (white)
- level control shutoff valve is closed (i.e. no fuel is flowing into related tank)
8. TANK 1/2 LEVEL CONTROL SHUTOFF VALVE SWITCHES
(three position spring loaded away from PRECHECK, toggle switch)
PRECHECK - simulates full fuel signal to the High Level Control Unit (HLCU) stopping refueling of related tank
OPEN - opens related Refuel/Defuel/Transfer shutoff valve for refueling or defueling
CLOSE - closes related Refuel/Defuel/Transfer shutoff valve to stop fuel flow
9. REFUEL/DEFUEL SELECTOR SWITCH (5 position)
REFUEL or DEFUEL- manual refueling or defueling continues until the selected switch is set
to OFF, the HLCU detects a full tank, or the level control shutoff valve switches are placed in
the CLOSE position
PRESELECT REFUEL or DEFUEL - refuel/defuel operation stops automatically, when the
preselected levels are reached
OFF - power removed from the refuel/defuel control panel

Page 16

Figure 12.9-8 Refuel/Defuel Panel (2 of 2)

Page 17

11
GROUND CREW
JACK

DECR

RESET

LB
INCR

3100
3100
6200
TEST

PRESEL

TANK 2

TANK 1

FUEL QTY

10

REFUEL

PRESELECT
REFUEL

OFF

TANK 1

DEFUEL

PRESELECT
DEFUEL

CLOSE

OPEN

TANK 2

REFUEL SHUTOFF
TANK 2

DUMP VALVE OPEN

TANK 2

PRECHECK

REFUEL SHUTOFF
TANK 1

DUMP VALVE OPEN

TANK 1

Component located on
right Nacelle only.

NOTE

Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

REFUEL/DEFUEL PANEL CALLOUTS (contd)

10. INCR/DECR SWITCH (three position, spring loaded to center)
- used to set the desired amount of fuel for processing a refueling or defueling operation
INCR or DECR - the current PRESEL display value on the RDI will increase/decrease by 10
kg
- this is repeated 10 times after which the current PRESEL display will increase/decrease
by 100 kg
- indicates from 0 5800 kg
- the displayed preselect value will never rise above the total fuel quantity when the refuel
mode status indicates a defuel operation is in progress
- the displayed preselect value will never fall below the total fuel quantity when the refuel
mode status indicates a refuel operation is in progress
- four seconds after the INCR/DECR switch is stable at the neutral position, the automatic
refuel/defuel function will start
- if refueling/defueling is in process and the INCR/DECR switch is moved out of its neutral
position, the refuel/defuel operation will stop and will restart four seconds after the INCR/
DECR switch activity is stopped
11. TEST/RESET SWITCH (three position, spring loaded to center)
TEST - starts display test
- displays a checkerboard pattern for 2 1 seconds, followed by an inverse checkerboard
pattern for 2 1 seconds and finally, followed by all segments turned off for 2 1 seconds
RESET - for maintenance purposes
- selecting RESET during refueling/defueling will cause the operation to stop and ABORT
will be displayed in the PRESEL window. The PRESEL value will then display the current
total fuel quantity. To restart refueling/defueling, the PRESEL value will have to be
increase or decrease using the INCR/DECR switch

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Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

12.9.4

Fuel - Indications

Fuel quantity and temperature data is shown in white on the Engine Display (ED) and the Fuel
Page of the Multi Function Display (MFD). White dashes replace the digits or simulated dials if
the data is not valid or not available.
A Fuel Quantity Computer (FQC) uses nine capacitance type fuel probes in each tank to determine the total fuel quantity. The fuel quantity of each tank is shown in digital form on the bottom
center of the Engine Display (ED). The Fuel Page of the Multi Function Display (MFD) also
shows the fuel quantity of each tank on two simulated analog dials and below that the total fuel
quantity in digital form. The fuel quantity can be shown in kilograms (KG). The fuel flow for each
engine is shown in digital form on the ED in units of KG/H.
The fuel temperature (C) in the left collector tank is shown in digital form on the MFD Fuel Page,
just below the left fuel quantity dial. The engine inlet temperature of the fuel after it has passed
through the Fuel/Oil Heat Exchanger (FOHE) for the left and right engines is shown in digital
form on the bottom of the ED, just below the related fuel tank quantity. The digits are shown in
white with a sign, and change to yellow or red if the temperature is not in the preset range. A C
unit is shown between the two inlet temperatures.
The fuel quantity of each tank is also shown on the refuel/defuel panel located at the back underside of the right nacelle. One magnetic dipstick on the underside of each tank can also be used
on the ground to give an independent mechanical indication of the fuel quantity in liters or U.S.
gallons. The magnetic dipstick is a calibrated rod with a magnet attached to the top. It moves
within a tube that extends vertically from the bottom of the fuel tank. A float moves up and down
on the outside surface of this tube to match the fuel level in the tank. The float contains a magnet
that is attracted to the magnet on the magnetic dipstick, holding the dipstick at that level.

Page 19

Figure 12.9-9 Fuel Tank Layout

Page 20

1. Surge Bay.
2. Overwing Filler Cap.
3. Main Tank.
4. Collector Bay.
5. Pressure Refuel/Defuel Control Panel.

LEGEND

1
Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

12.9.5

Storage And Distribution

There are two integral (wet) wing tanks that extend laterally from the fuselage to the rib just
inboard of the ailerons (Figure 12.9-9). Each wing tank is divided into three sections:

Surge bay
Main tank
Collector bay

The surge bay is located between the two ribs inboard of the aileron. The main tank extends from
the surge bay to the fuselage and collector bay. The collector bay is located at the inboard and
aft part of the wing tank. Fuel is contained in the main tanks and the collector bays.
Total usable fuel from the tanks is 5,318 kg. The maximum lateral imbalance permitted between
tanks is 272 kg. Water drain valves in the low points of the surge bays, main tanks, and collector
bays are located on the underside of the wings.
The surge bay is used for main tank venting and fuel recovery. Two outboard float vent valves
and one inboard vent line, control the pressure between the related surge bay and main tank
(Figure 12.9-10). The two float vent valves, located near the top of the tank, open and close
depending on the fuel level in the main tank. Each surge bay is vented through integral standpipes to two separate NACA vents on the bottom of the wings. During flight, any fuel that may
spill into the surge bay, is returned to the tank by the reduced pressure in the main tank, as fuel is
used.
The collector bay supplies engine fuel regardless of aircraft attitude. Fuel tank scavenging takes
place using scavenge ejector pumps in each tank which draw fuel from tank low points, to keep
the collector bay full. A primary ejector pump in the collector bay then provides a constant lowpressure fuel supply to the engine. High-pressure motive flow is used to operate the scavenge
and primary ejector pumps.
Flapper check valves are located at the base of each collector bay, and select ribs. They ensure
gravity fed fuel flow into the collector bay if the scavenge flow is not sufficient.
The related #1 TANK or #2 TANK FUEL LOW caution light will come on if:

park brake is off

related collector bay level drops below approximately 150 kg.
related engine is operating.

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Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

Figure 12.9-10 Fuel Tank Venting

Page 22

Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

12.9.6

Engine Fuel Feed

Fuel to each engine is fed from the collector tank, from a primary ejector pump or an AC driven
auxiliary pump, and delivered to the engine driven pump (Figure 12.9-11). If the engine driven
pump inlet pressure drops below a preset limit, the related #1 or #2 ENG FUEL PRESS caution
light comes on.
An AC (Variable Frequency) auxiliary pump in each collector bay serves as a back up source of
fuel boost pressure for takeoff and landing, and in case the related primary ejector pump does
not supply the necessary fuel pressure. Related TANK 1 or TANK 2 AUX PUMP switchlights on
the FUEL CONTROL TRANSFER panel control the auxiliary pumps manually (Figure 12.9-12).
A TANK 1 or TANK 2 AUX PUMP switch indicator on the MFD Fuel Page shows the position of
the switchlight. When the pump is supplying sufficient boost pressure, the TANK 1 or TANK 2
AUX PUMP light on the Fuel Page will turn green, and the related ON switchlight segment turns
green.
The engine feed shutoff valve closes when the related PULL FUEL/HYD OFF handle, on the Fire
Protection Panel (FPP), is pulled (Figure 12.9-12). Advisory lights on the FPP show when the
valve is open or closed.
The fuel is filtered and heated by Fuel Oil Heat Exchanger (FOHE) before entering the FMU. If
the fuel filter becomes blocked, fuel bypasses the filter. The #1 or #2 FUEL FLTR BYPASS caution light will come on if a related bypass is impending.

Page 23

NACA
VENTS

SURGE
BAY

OUTBOARD
SCAVENGE
EJECTOR

MID WING
SCAVENGE
EJECTOR

MOTIVE FLOW
CHECK VALVE

ENGINE

ENGINE FEED
SHUT-OFF VALVE

Figure 12.9-11 Engine Fuel Feed Schematic

Page 24

TEMPERATURE
SENSOR

AFT
SCAVENGE
EJECTOR

FLOAT SWITCH

AUXILIARY
PUMP

DRY
BAY

APU FEED
LNE (TO APU)

APU SHUT-OFF
VALVE

INLET
STRAINER

TO PRIMARY
EJECTOR
PUMP

CL
AIRCRAFT

AUXILARY PUMP
PRESSURE SWITCH

COLLECTOR
BAY

FORWARD
SCAVENGE
EJECTOR
FLAPPER
VALVES
(TYPICAL)

ENGINE FEED
PRESSURE SWITCH

Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

fs number

Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

FUEL

VALVE
CLOSED
TO
TANK 1

C
50

OIL

PSI
50

C
75

FUEL

2400 LBS 2400

+18 C +18
SAT +22C

OIL

PSI
50

QTY

LBS
x1000
7
0

VALVE

TRASFER SW

5
6

OFF

CLOSED
TO
TANK 2

TANK1
TANK2
AUX PUMP AUX PUMP
SW
SW
OFF
ON

TANK +15C

QTY

LBS
x1000
7
0

TOTAL FUEL
4800 LBS

FOHE
IFC 1
IFC 2

IFC 1
IFC 2

#1 ENG
FUEL PRESS

#1 TANK
FUEL LOW

EXTG
AFT BTL

VALVES
FUEL

OPEN CLOSED

TANK 1
AUX PUMP

B
LO

FWD BTL
HYD
FAULT
A

ON

FAULT
B

FUEL CONTROL
TRANSFER
TO
TANK
1

ENGINE 1
TEST
DETECTIO
PULL FUEL/HYD OFF

LEGEND
ELECTRICAL
SIGNAL

Figure 12.9-12 Engine Fuel Feed Operation

Page 25

TO
TANK
2

Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

FUEL CONTROL

TANK 1
AUX PUMP

TANK 2
AUX PUMP

TRANSFER
TO
TANK
1

TO
TANK
2

ON
LEVEL CONTROL
SHUTOFF VALVE

FROM REFUELING
ADAPTER
FUEL TRANSFER
SHUTOFF VALVE

AUXILIARY
PUMP

COLLECTOR

COLLECTOR

BAY

BAY
LEVEL CONTROL
IFC 1
IFC 2

SOLENOID

FUEL

VALVE

VALVE

TRANSFER SW

TO
TANK2

TO
TANK1

OPEN

TANK1

TANK2

OPEN

QTY

AUX PUMP
SW

AUX PUMP
SW

QTY

LBS
x1000
0
7

OFF

OFF

LBS
x1000
7
0

TANK

+20C

TOTAL FUEL
4000 LBS

LEGEND
ELECTRICAL
SIGNAL
PRESSURE SWITCH

Figure 12.9-13 Fuel Transfer Schematic

Page 26

Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

12.9.7

Fuel Transfer

Fuel can be transferred from one tank to the other to correct fuel imbalances or for fuel management. If the Fuel Quantity Computer (FQC) detects a fuel imbalance of more than 272 kg, a yellow [BALANCE] message flashes just above the FUEL legend of the ED. The message will flash
until the imbalance is corrected. An imbalance condition will also be shown on the Fuel Page by
the analog quantity dials changing to solid yellow.
A TRANSFER switch on the FUEL CONTROL TRANSFER panel controls the fuel transfer system (Figure 12.9-13). When the TRANSFER switch is selected, the auxiliary pump in the donor
tank operates automatically to pump fuel to the receiver tank. A signal from the operating pump
causes the related ON switchlight segment to turn green. Electrically operated fuel transfer shutoff valves open for fuel transfer and close when the transfer is stopped. Fuel transfer indications
are also shown on the MFD Fuel Page. Once selected, fuel transfer will continue until deselected
by the flight crew or until a high-level sensor in the wing tank which is receiving fuel detects an
overfill condition, which automatically halts fuel transfer. Fuel cannot be transferred if the FUELING ON caution light is on. The FUELING ON caution light is on if the refuel/defuel access door
is open.

Page 27

VENT/DUMP
VALVE

Figure 12.9-14 Refueling Schematic

Page 28
FUEL QTY

GROUND CREW
JACK

DECR

RESET

LB
INCR

3100
3100
6200
REFUEL

OFF

TANK 1

DEFUEL

CLOSE

OPEN

TANK 2

REFUEL SHUTOFF
TANK 2

DUMP VALVE OPEN

TANK 2

PRECHECK

REFUEL SHUTOFF
TANK 1

DUMP VALVE OPEN

TANK 1

COLLECTOR
BAY

PRESELECT
DEFUEL

FUEL TRANSFER
SHUTOFF VALVES

PRESELECT
REFUEL

COLLECTOR
BAY

TEST

PRESEL

TANK 2

TANK 1

LEVEL
CONTROL
SOLENOID

LEVEL CONTROL
SHUTOFF VALVE

LEGEND
ELECTRICAL
SIGNAL

REFUEL/
DEFUEL
ADAPTER

REFUEL/DEFUEL
SHUTOFF VALVE

HIGH LEVEL
SENSOR

Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

fs number

Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

12.9.8

Refueling

The refuel/defuel panel controls all refuel and defuel operations (Figure 12.9-14). Access to the
panel is gained through a flush door on the rear underside of No. 2 nacelle. DC power must be
available for refueling. The FUELING ON caution light will come on when the refuel/defuel door
is open with electrical power supplied. Refueling can be accomplished either automatically (PRESELECT REFUEL), or manually (REFUEL).
When the rotary selector is turned to the PRESELECT REFUEL or REFUEL position, the MASTER VALVE CLOSED light goes out to show that the refuel/defuel shutoff valve is open (Figure
12.9-15,16). The refuel/defuel shutoff valve will close when the refuel/defuel door is closed,
regardless of the rotary selector position. During pressure refueling, fuel pressure opens a vent/
dump valve in each tank to vent the tanks through the surge bay. For automatic refueling, the
desired quantity is selected adjacent the PRESEL display on the Refuel/Defuel Indicator (RDI),
by using the INCR DECR toggle switch (Figure 12.9-17). When the selected quantity is reached,
the level control shutoff valve automatically stops fuel flow to the related tank. The PRECHECK,
OPEN, CLOSE switches must be set to OPEN for refueling.
During manual refueling, the desired quantity in each tank is controlled by the PRECHECK,
OPEN, CLOSE switches. The RDI will display the individual tank quantities. With the rotary
selector turned to the REFUEL position, refueling continues until the PRECHECK, OPEN,
CLOSE switches are in the CLOSE position, the selector switch is turned to the OFF position, or
until the high level sensors sense a full tank condition.
When fueling is in progress, advisory lights on the refuel/defuel control panel indicate the position
of the fuel control valves. The amber DUMP VALVE OPEN indicator light comes on when the
related vent/dump valve opens. The vent/dump valve allows air to vent from the tank as it fills,
and prevents damage should the tank overfill due to failure of both normal and backup shutoff
features. In the latter case, fuel flows into the surge bay through the refuel vent valve and, if it
reaches the height of the standpipes, is spilled overboard through the surge bay NACA vents.
Two PRECHECK, OPEN, CLOSE switches test the automatic shutoff operation of the related
high level control unit during refueling, ensuring operation of the overfill shut off system. With the
switch in the PRECHECK position a full tank is simulated for the related tank, and the high level
sensor shuts off refueling to that tank by closing the level control shut off valve. This causes the
related amber REFUEL SHUTOFF light to turn on. Refueling restarts when the switch is
released. If DC power is lost during refueling, refueling stops.
Gravity refueling can be done through the wing mounted gravity refuel adapter located on the top
surface of the wing (Figure 12.9-18).

Page 29

Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

DUMP VALVE OPEN

TANK 1

DUMP VALVE OPEN

TANK 2

REFUEL SHUTOFF
TANK 1

REFUEL SHUTOFF
TANK 2

FUEL QTY
TANK 1
TANK 2

OFF
PRESELECT
REFUEL

PRESEL
TEST

PRESELECT
DEFUEL

INCR
REFUEL

RESET

DEFUEL

PRECHECK

TANK 1

DECR

OPEN

TANK 2

CLOSE

GROUND CREW
JACK

INITIAL CONFIGURATION

DUMP VALVE OPEN

TANK 1

DUMP VALVE OPEN

TANK 2

REFUEL SHUTOFF
TANK 1

REFUEL SHUTOFF
TANK 2

FUEL QTY

3100
3100
10000

TANK 1
TANK 2
PRESEL

TEST

OFF

LB
I

PRESELECT
REFUEL

PRESELECT
DEFUEL

R
REFUEL

RESET

DEFUEL

PRECHECK

OPEN

TANK 1

DECR

TANK 2

CLOSE

GROUND CREW
JACK

PANEL SET TO INITIATE REFUELING

DUMP VALVE OPEN

TANK 1

DUMP VALVE OPEN

TANK 2

REFUEL SHUTOFF
TANK 1

REFUEL SHUTOFF
TANK 2

FUEL QTY
TANK 1
TANK 2
PRESEL

4000
4000
10000
TEST

OFF

LB

PRESELECT
REFUEL

PRESELECT
DEFUEL

INCR
REFUEL

RESET

DEFUEL

TANK 1

DECR

PRECHECK

OPEN

TANK 2

CLOSE

GROUND CREW
JACK

REFUELING IN PROGRESS
LEGEND

Light Off.

Figure 12.9-15 Refueling Operation (1 of 2)

Page 30

Light On.

Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

DUMP VALVE OPEN

TANK 1

DUMP VALVE OPEN

TANK 2

REFUEL SHUTOFF
TANK 1

REFUEL SHUTOFF
TANK 2

FUEL QTY

4100
4200
10000

TANK 1
TANK 2
PRESEL

TEST

OFF

LB

PRESELECT
REFUEL

PRESELECT
DEFUEL

INCR
REFUEL

RESET

DEFUEL

PRECHECK

OPEN

TANK 1

DECR

TANK 2

CLOSE

GROUND CREW
JACK

PRE-CHECK TEST (No. 1 TANK) DURING REFUELING

DUMP VALVE OPEN

TANK 1

DUMP VALVE OPEN

TANK 2

REFUEL SHUTOFF
TANK 1

REFUEL SHUTOFF
TANK 2

FUEL QTY

5000
5000
10000

TANK 1
TANK 2
PRESEL

TEST

OFF

LB

PRESELECT
REFUEL

PRESELECT
DEFUEL

INCR
REFUEL

RESET

DEFUEL

PRECHECK

OPEN

TANK 1

DECR

TANK 2

CLOSE

GROUND CREW
JACK

TANKS FULL

DUMP VALVE OPEN

TANK 1

DUMP VALVE OPEN

TANK 2

REFUEL SHUTOFF
TANK 1

REFUEL SHUTOFF
TANK 2

FUEL QTY
TANK 1
TANK 2

OFF
PRESELECT
REFUEL

PRESEL
TEST

PRESELECT
DEFUEL

INCR
REFUEL

RESET

DEFUEL

PRECHECK

TANK 1

DECR

OPEN

CLOSE

GROUND CREW
JACK

REFUELING COMPLETE

Figure 12.9-16 Refueling Operation (2 of 2)

Page 31

TANK 2

Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

POWER ON
FUEL QTY

3120
3180
PRESEL 6300
TANK 1
TANK 2

Preselect
Quantity is set
to Total Quantity

lb
lb
lb

TEST

INCR

RESET

DECR

Refuel Shutoff Valves are Closed

Reset Switch Sets

Preselect = Total
FUEL QTY

3120 lb
3120 lb
PRESEL 10000
lb
TANK 1
TANK 2

New
Preselect
is entered

TEST

INCR

RESET

DECR

4 Seconds After
INCR/DECR is
neutral
Shuttoff valves are opened
FUEL QTY

4430 lb
4500 lb
PRESEL 10000
lb
TANK 1

Tank 1 &
Tank 2
Fuel
quantities
are
Updated

TANK 2

TEST

Move INC/DECR
Switch

INCR

5 Second Delay
FUEL QTY

4600 lb
4650 lb
PRESEL
ABORT
TANK 1
TANK 2

TEST

INCR

RESET

DECR

Reset Switch
RESET

DECR

Refuel Shutoff
Valves are Closed
Fuel flow stopped

Automatic Fuel Shutoff

FUEL QTY

5000 lb
5000 lb
PRESEL 10000
lb
TANK 1

Total Fuel = Preselect.

Refuel Shutoff Valves are Closed
Fuel flow stopped

Preselect
Refuel
Completed

TANK 2

New Preselect

Use INCR/DECR
Switch to set
Preselect Quantity

TEST

INCR

RESET

DECR

Figure 12.9-17 Refuel/Defuel Indicator Operation

Page 32

Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

FW

LO
C

E
P

O
N

Figure 12.9-18 Overviewing Filler Cap

Page 33

Dash8 - Q400 - Fuel

12.9.9

Defueling

When the rotary selector is turned to the PRESELECT DEFUEL position, the FGC closes the
refuel/defuel valves to automatically stop defueling at the preset quantity. When the rotary selector is turned to the DEFUEL position, defueling continues until the selector switch is turned to the
OFF position. If AC (variable frequency) power is available, the related auxiliary fuel pump operates to help the defueling process. Without an AC power source, suction defueling must be used.
DC power is required for defueling regardless of AC power availability.
12.9.10

Limitations

The maximum refueling pressure is 50 psi, which gives a refueling flow rate of approximately 125
gallons per minute. A minimum of 20 psi refueling pressure is necessary for the system to operate properly.

Page 34