Alert to pilots and owners – fuel injection servo plug problem again

30 Jan 2009

AOPA alerts pilots and owners to a revised Airworthiness Directive following on from the one which caused the overnight 3000 aircraft grounding last year.

Don’t panic – we have a little more breathing space this time.

The AD will be available on the CASA website today. AD/FSM/31 AMDT 2.

Engines affected include some of: a) Lycoming Engines IO, (L)IO, TIO, (L)TIO, AEIO, AIO, IGO, IVO, and HIO series reciprocating engines. b) Teledyne Continental LTSIO-360-RB and TSIO-360-RB reciprocating engines. c) Superior Air Parts, Inc. IO-360 series reciprocating engines.

The revision is because more cases have been found in the USA affecting Bendix fuel injection servos. Only inspection, or your LAME records, will confirm if you are affected.

If your aircraft has an engine in the above group, or if in any doubt – check with your LAME to ensure compliance by 23 February (and that does not mean leave it until that day).

AOPA commends CASA for consulting before issuing this AD and for the three week period of grace before it becomes mandatory. The FAA have made their date of effect 9 February – we have an extra fortnight due to the need to get aircraft back in some cases from outback locations and on the basis that we act responsibly and sensibly.

Be warned – if the fuel injection plug becomes loose, the loss of power may be sufficient to have you need to make use of your forced landing skills. Check ASAP rather than try and explain the consequences to your insurer!

There is also a requirement for replacement of all P/N 365533 gaskets which were original fitment to the servo plug prior to 31 December 2009 to resolve the AD – whether your engine servo plug is loose or not. Plan this with your next maintenance.

Act on the inspection and AD quickly.

Enquiries Brian Hannan ralco@aopa.com.au or 0425 877 883 (but read the AD first please).