Abstract: The invention includes a method of mounting a component to the skin of an aircraft. The component can include a drain valve, a gas cap, other external fuel instrumentation such as sensors, and antennae. One aspect of the invention includes a new method of mounting a drain valve to an aircraft fuel tank. The drain valve in the method includes any conventional drain valve having a stem and a flange that surrounds the stem. The method includes applying a material around a drain opening of the fuel tank; the material directs an electric charge away from the drain valve.

Abstract: A toilet tank filling valve assembly to be mounted on an aircraft (10) includes an elongated main body (32) for defining an elongated passage (34) and first and second longitudinally spaced lateral passages (36 and 38). A one piece elongated bypass casing (56) defines an elongated bypass channel (58) and includes a bypass-casing oblong sealing facing (64) corresponding to a main-body oblong sealing facing (66) surrounding the first and second lateral passages. The elongated channel forms a passage between the first and second lateral passages. A moveable valve member (46) is mounted in a valve cavity (40) of the elongated main body at an intersection of the elongated passage for being placed in an open position to allow flow through the elongated passage or to a closed position for closing the elongated passage but allowing flow between a first end of the elongated passage and the first lateral passage.

Abstract: A push-type, lightning-protected fuel tank drain valve has a non-conductive plastic poppet that cannot be pushed upwardly axially far enough to open its port until the poppet is first rotated about its axis.

Abstract: A drain valve for use in a fuel tank and having a drain port and an axially movable poppet or valve member. The valve member has a first position for closing the port, a second position for opening the port to permit draining of liquid from the fuel tank, and a third position wherein the valve member is lowered to expose a seal thereon for inspection or replacement. A valve stem is connected to the valve member and has a pin with ends projecting therefrom. A retainer assembly comprised of two identical, interfitting retainer members has slots for receiving the ends of the pin and surfaces for supporting the pin and, in turn, the valve member when the valve is either opened or closed.