Engine - Oil Filter Sampling / Analysis - Hydraulic Torque Sensor Gear Assembly - Inspection
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AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Affected operators must perform an initial oil filter sample within 150 hours time-in-service and conduct repetitive sampling thereafter. If oil analysis indicates potential issues, inspections of the hydraulic torque sensor gear assembly must be completed within 5 days of receiving laboratory notification. The directive becomes effective on July 26, 2018, and operators should review records to identify affected engines and comply with all inspection and overhaul requirements accordingly.
Summary
Airworthiness Directive 2018-13-05 is a final rule issued by the Federal Aviation Administration addressing certain Honeywell International Inc. TPE331 turboprop and TSE331 turboshaft engines. It targets failures in the direct drive fuel control gears and bearings within the hydraulic torque sensor gear assembly, part number 3101726-3. The directive mandates initial and repetitive engine oil filter sampling and analysis, along with inspections of affected hydraulic torque sensor gear assemblies to ensure continued airworthiness.
What changed
This new airworthiness directive introduces mandatory initial and repetitive oil filter sampling and analysis for the affected Honeywell engines. It also requires inspections of hydraulic torque sensor gear assemblies that fail oil filter criteria and enforces improved overhaul procedures to phase out certain gear assemblies. Compliance times for sampling and inspections have been clarified and adjusted based on public comments.
Why it matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it addresses a safety risk related to torque sensor gear assembly failures that could lead to engine malfunction. Operators and maintenance organizations must implement the oil sampling and inspection requirements to detect early signs of wear and prevent in-service failures. Compliance ensures continued engine reliability and regulatory adherence, reducing the risk of unscheduled maintenance and potential safety incidents.
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