FuelHawk Precision Aircraft Fuel Gauges

How do you use a FuelHawk fuel gauge?

Using a FuelHawk is simple. Insert the ready-to-use measurement tool into your fuel tank until it touches the bottom, place your thumb firmly over the top opening, then remove it to read your available fuel instantly. The fuel trapped inside the tube lines up with the calibrated scale, giving you a clear reading you can trust for fuel planning.

Which FuelHawk model fits my aircraft?

FuelHawk offers model-specific gauges for popular aircraft, including the Cessna 152 with 12-gallon tanks, the Cessna 172 with 19, 20, and 26.5-gallon tanks, the Cessna 182 with 39 and 43.5-gallon tanks, and the Piper PA-28 with 24-gallon tanks. If your aircraft is not listed, choose a universal model and calibrate it using the included chart.

What universal sizes are available and how do I pick one?

FuelHawk provides three universal sizes with printed scales of 8 inches, 12.25 inches, and 22 inches that adapt to virtually any configuration. The Universal 11-inch features the 8-inch scale and suits smaller tanks, while the Universal 16-inch and 26-inch models accommodate larger fuel systems. Pick the length that reaches your tank bottom, then calibrate it to your aircraft.

How do you calibrate a universal FuelHawk?

Each universal FuelHawk includes a comprehensive Universal Calibration Chart so you can customize the gauge to your aircraft's specifications. Follow the chart to match the printed scale to your specific tank shape and capacity. Calibrating this way tailors the gauge to your aircraft so every reading reflects the true usable fuel on board for confident planning.

Does a FuelHawk read usable fuel or total tank capacity?

A FuelHawk reads the amount of fuel actually in the tank in US gallons, shown on its calibrated scale. This lets you know exactly how much you have on board for planning. Combine that reading with your aircraft's published usable and unusable fuel figures from the Pilot's Operating Handbook to calculate the fuel available for your flight.

What is the FuelHawk made of, and can I use it with avgas?

The FuelHawk is a clear measurement tube designed to be dipped directly into your fuel tanks during preflight, so it is built for routine contact with the fuels used in piston aircraft, including leaded avgas. Wipe it dry after each use and store it clean so the printed scale stays easy to read for future checks.

Will a FuelHawk work on low-wing aircraft?

A FuelHawk measures fuel from the tank filler opening, so it can be used on many low-wing aircraft, such as a Piper PA-28, as long as you can reach the bottom of the tank through the filler neck. Choose a model long enough to touch the tank bottom, then calibrate it to your specific aircraft.

How accurate is a FuelHawk, and should I rely on it instead of the cockpit gauges?

FuelHawk gauges are factory-calibrated to deliver accurate readings that eliminate the guesswork of unreliable built-in systems. A dipstick is best used to directly verify fuel quantity and confirm your cockpit gauges are reading correctly. Always cross-check against your Pilot's Operating Handbook and confirm tank levels visually as part of your normal preflight routine.

Does the aircraft need to be on level ground for an accurate reading?

Yes. For the most accurate measurement, park the aircraft on a level surface before dipping the tank. Because the fuel sits at an angle when a wing is low or the nose is high, even a small slope can change the reading. Checking on level ground gives you consistent, trustworthy numbers you can use for fuel planning.