EASA AD US-2018-02-04
AEROSPACE WELDING MINNEAPOLIS - Engine Exhaust - Muffler - Inspection
Summary
Federal Aviation Administration Airworthiness Directive 2018-02-04 is a final rule addressing certain Aerospace Welding Minneapolis, Inc. mufflers, part numbers A1754001-23 and A1754001-25, installed on airplanes including Cessna models. The directive responds to reports of cracks and broken welds in the muffler connecting welds that could allow carbon monoxide exhaust fumes into the cockpit heating system. It mandates inspection and replacement of affected mufflers to ensure airworthiness and safety.
What Changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory inspections for leaks in the specified Aerospace Welding Minneapolis mufflers and requires replacement if cracks or broken welds are found. It clarifies the applicability to specific part numbers and serial numbers and corrects the citation of the related service bulletin. The directive also allows the use of installation instructions from other FAA-approved muffler manufacturers when replacing the affected parts.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a safety hazard involving potential carbon monoxide exposure in the cockpit, which can jeopardize flight safety. Operators and maintenance organizations must ensure compliance to prevent unsafe conditions caused by muffler weld failures. The directive also provides clarity on part applicability and acceptable replacement procedures, aiding compliance and maintenance planning.
What To Do
Operators with airplanes equipped with Aerospace Welding Minneapolis mufflers part numbers A1754001-23 or A1754001-25 must inspect the mufflers for leaks indicative of cracks or broken welds and replace any affected mufflers. Compliance with this directive is required by February 21, 2018. When installing replacement mufflers, operators may use installation instructions from the muffler manufacturer if different from Aerospace Welding Minneapolis.
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