EASA SIB AV-2009-04: Bombardier (Canadair) Challenger - Elevator Cable Vertical Stabilizer Area

What to do

Maintenance personnel should carefully inspect the entire length of the elevator cable run in the vertical stabilizer during the next scheduled cable inspection, paying special attention to confined and difficult-to-access areas to ensure adequate clearance. Operators should follow the updated AMM procedures and await the forthcoming Advisory Wire from Bombardier for detailed guidance. Any defects or malfunctions should be reported to Transport Canada Civil Aviation as per CAR 591 requirements.

Summary

Transport Canada Service Difficulty Advisory AV-2009-04 addresses a potential issue with the elevator cable assembly Part Number 600-90020-125 on Bombardier (Canadair) Challenger CL-600-2A12 and CL-600-2B16 series 601, 601-3A, and 601-3R aircraft. The advisory highlights cases where the elevator cable was found rubbing against and partially wearing through the electrical conduit P/N 601-56004-41 in the vertical stabilizer area, causing damage to some electrical wires. This advisory is non-mandatory and aims to raise awareness among operators and maintenance personnel.

What changed

This advisory introduces awareness of the elevator cable interference issue and informs operators that Bombardier Aerospace has revised the Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM) and will issue an Advisory Wire emphasizing the importance of thorough cable inspections in the vertical stabilizer. It recommends enhanced inspection procedures during scheduled maintenance to detect and prevent cable and conduit interference.

Why it matters

The advisory is important for aviation professionals because undetected rubbing of the elevator cable against the electrical conduit can lead to wire damage, potentially affecting the horizontal trim actuator system. Early detection and proper inspection help maintain aircraft safety and airworthiness, reducing the risk of system malfunctions and costly repairs.