EASA AD US-2018-21-12
Engine Fuel & Control - Fuel Manifold - Removal / Replacement
Summary
The document titled "Engine Fuel & Control - Fuel Manifold - Removal / Replacement" is a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airworthiness Directive (AD 2018-21-12) addressing certain General Electric Company GEnx-2B67, -2B67B, and -2B67/P turbofan engines. It mandates the removal and replacement of specific top main and lower fuel manifolds due to low-cycle fatigue cracking that could lead to engine fires. This AD affects engines installed on U.S. registered aircraft and aims to enhance engine safety.
What Changed
This new AD requires operators to remove from service certain fuel manifolds identified by specific part numbers at the next engine shop visit and replace them with parts eligible for installation. It prohibits the installation of the affected fuel manifolds after the effective date. The AD incorporates updated service information from GE that provides revised procedures for fuel manifold replacement, including configurations that reduce the scope of required replacements.
Why It Matters
This AD is critical for aviation professionals because it addresses a safety risk of fuel manifold failure due to cracking, which could result in engine fires and damage to aircraft. Operators and maintenance organizations must comply to prevent potential catastrophic engine failures. Compliance ensures continued airworthiness and regulatory adherence, minimizing operational disruptions and safety hazards.
What To Do
Affected operators must remove the specified fuel manifolds from service and replace them with approved parts at the next engine shop visit, defined as when major engine case flanges are separated for maintenance. After January 4, 2019, installation of the affected fuel manifolds is prohibited. Maintenance and compliance teams should review GE service bulletins 73-0038 revisions R02 and R03 for detailed replacement procedures and coordinate with the FAA for any alternative methods of compliance if needed.
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