EASA AD 2019-0033
Engine Fuel & Control — Carburettor Throttle Valve Shaft Linkage — Inspection / Modification
Summary
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2019-0033 is an airworthiness directive addressing the inspection and modification of the carburettor throttle valve shaft linkage on Nimbus-4M and Nimbus-4DM powered sailplanes equipped with SOLO 2625 02 engines. The directive targets the spring pins used in the linkage, specifying that pins with a diameter smaller than 3 mm must be replaced. This AD aims to ensure continued safe engine power control on affected sailplanes.
What Changed
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2019-0033 introduces a mandatory one-time inspection of the carburettor throttle valve shaft linkage spring pins on specified Nimbus-4 powered sailplanes. If undersized spring pins are found, they must be replaced with serviceable parts having a diameter of 3 mm. This is a new regulation responding to a reported failure of the linkage causing engine power loss.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for operators and maintenance organizations to prevent potential loss of engine power control due to incorrect spring pin installation. Compliance ensures the safety and reliability of the engine throttle control system, reducing the risk of reduced control of the powered sailplane. It also helps maintain regulatory compliance with EASA continuing airworthiness requirements.
What To Do
Operators of Nimbus-4M and Nimbus-4DM powered sailplanes with SOLO 2625 02 engines must inspect the carburettor throttle valve shaft linkage spring pins before the next engine operation after 28 February 2019. If any spring pin with a diameter smaller than 3 mm is found, it must be replaced with a compliant 3 mm diameter pin before further flight. Compliance with Schempp-Hirth Technical Note 868-23 is required.
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