The APBA (American Powerboat Association)/US Titles Series involves 14ft hydroplanes that fly over the water’s surface on a cushion of dense air at straightaway speeds over 120MPH. Races are typically five lap sprints on a short, one mile oval-shaped course. Outboard motor racing generates well over 265HP at 14,000RPM out of a 700CC two stroke displacement engine, which runs on racing grade methanol alcohol and castor (or a chemical) oil mixed into the fuel, as well as an occasional dash of nitro. A major challenge for most race teams is feeding three gallons of this type of fuel through four 38MM carburetors in less than five minutes without flooding the engine. The flow control of fuel pressure must be accurate and precisely maintained between 2 and 3PSI. Many of the racing teams, including 13-Time National Champion and World Speed Record Holder Liquid Courage piloted by Sean McKean, rely on Smart Products to keep their fuel pressure in line. For the Liquid Courage racing team, the engine crankcase pumps up to 10PSI of positive pressure generated through Smart Products’ #304/304 check valve from an oscillating pressure-vacuum. In action, this valve opens and closes over 200 times per second. Pressure is maintained by using another Smart Products pressure relief valve, model #118, at the fuel tank. This valve keeps the fuel tank pressure between the prescribed 2-3PSI.
