EASA SIB 2009-04: Volare Carburetors LLC (formerly Precision Airmotive, Facet Aerospace and Marvel-Schebler) Carburetor Float Failures.

What to do

Operators and maintenance personnel should review and implement the recommendations in the referenced FAA SAIB CE-06-33R1, Precision Airmotive Mandatory Service Bulletin MSA-13, and Lycoming Service Bulletin 582A. Affected carburetors should be modified by replacing existing floats with the new foam floats as advised. For further information, stakeholders can contact EASA or Volare Carburetors LLC and obtain related service publications. No mandatory compliance deadline is specified.

Summary

EASA Safety Information Bulletin SIB No. 2009-04 addresses carburetor float failures in Volare Carburetors LLC float type carburetors, formerly manufactured by Precision Airmotive, Facet Aerospace, and Marvel-Schebler. These carburetors are commonly installed on Lycoming, Teledyne Continental, and Franklin reciprocating engines used in aircraft certificated under Part 23 or equivalent standards. The bulletin informs European Union operators and maintenance personnel about potential fuel leaks and float damage that can cause power loss due to an overly rich fuel mixture.

What changed

This bulletin supports previously issued FAA and manufacturer service bulletins recommending the replacement of brass and advanced-polymer floats with new foam floats in affected carburetors. It highlights ongoing investigations into the reliability of the new foam floats and encourages operators to follow the recommended modifications to mitigate float failures. The bulletin does not introduce mandatory requirements but reinforces awareness and voluntary compliance.

Why it matters

Float failures in these carburetors can lead to fuel leaks and engine power loss, posing safety risks including emergency landings and potential aircraft loss. Aviation professionals, including operators and maintenance organizations, need to be aware of these issues to prevent in-flight engine problems and ensure continued airworthiness. Early identification and modification reduce the risk of incidents related to carburetor float malfunction.