EASA SIB CE-08-13
Piper PA-28, PA-32, PA-34, PA-44 and PA-46 - Possible Failure of a Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS)
Summary
Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin SAIB: CE-08-13 is an FAA informational bulletin addressing a potential failure of Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) devices in Piper aircraft models PA-28, PA-32, PA-34, PA-44, and PA-46. The affected aircraft include the PA-28-161 Warrior III, PA-28-181 Archer III, PA-28R-201 Arrow, PA-32R-301 Saratoga II TC and HP variants, PA-32-301FT 6X, PA-32-301XTC 6XT, PA-34-200T Seneca V, PA-44-180 Seminole, PA-46-350P Mirage, and PA-46-500TP Meridian. This bulletin informs operators of possible TVS failures that may increase pilot workload but does not mandate corrective action.
What Changed
This bulletin introduces awareness of a potential failure in certain TVS devices installed on specific Piper aircraft models, which can cause loss of Primary Flight Display function and cockpit smoke or odor. It does not impose mandatory regulatory action but recommends inspection and replacement of affected TVS devices as outlined in Piper Service Bulletin No. 1187. The FAA has not issued an airworthiness directive for this issue at this time.
Why It Matters
For aviation professionals, this information is critical to maintaining aircraft electrical system reliability and pilot situational awareness. Failure of the TVS device can lead to increased pilot workload and potential safety concerns due to loss of flight display functionality and cockpit smoke. Operators and maintenance organizations should be aware of the affected serial numbers and manufacturing lots to prevent in-service failures and ensure continued airworthiness.
What To Do
Operators of the affected Piper aircraft should inspect the TVS devices installed on their airplanes and verify the lot numbers against those specified in Piper Service Bulletin No. 1187 dated February 8, 2008. If the TVS devices match the defective lots, they should be removed and replaced following the service bulletin instructions. No specific compliance deadline is mandated by the FAA, but timely action is recommended to mitigate potential failures.
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