EASA SIB 2014-34
Possible Exceedance of Engine Temperature Limits of BRP-Powertrain Rotax 912 and 914 Engines
Summary
EASA Safety Information Bulletin 2014-34 addresses a possible exceedance of engine temperature limits in BRP-Powertrain Rotax 912 and 914 engines. The bulletin affects specific serial numbers of 912 A/F/S and 914 F engines and certain cylinder heads installed since January 2013. These engines are installed on various light aircraft models including Cessna 150 series, Diamond Aircraft DA20-A1, and Tecnam P2006T among others.
What Changed
The bulletin highlights an unapproved design change where the engine coolant temperature measurement replaced the cylinder head temperature measurement without proper communication or aircraft modifications. This change affects temperature limit indications, potentially causing pilots to miss coolant temperature exceedances due to mismatched indicator markings. The issue arises from installation of affected cylinder heads or engines without concurrent approved aircraft modifications.
Why It Matters
This issue is critical for aviation professionals because it can lead to unnoticed engine coolant temperature exceedances, risking engine failure during flight. Operators, maintenance organizations, and manufacturers must ensure correct installation and proper aircraft modifications to maintain safe engine operation. Failure to address this could result in unapproved aircraft modifications and compromise flight safety.
What To Do
Aircraft manufacturers and TC/STC holders should identify affected engines installed since January 2013 and verify if aircraft modifications accommodate the coolant temperature measurement. Operators must check aircraft records or visually inspect cylinder heads and consult TC/STC holder publications for approved modifications. Maintenance organizations should verify approved installations before releasing aircraft to service and avoid installing affected parts without proper approval. If no approved modification exists, aircraft operation should be suspended until further instructions are received.