EASA SIB CE-10-17
Piper PA-28 and PA-32 Main Landing Gear Torque Link Inspection Interval
Summary
The Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB) CE-10-17 is an FAA informational bulletin addressing the inspection interval for the main landing gear torque link on Piper PA-28 and PA-32 aircraft models. It specifically concerns certain serial numbers of PA-28-140, PA-28-150/-160/-180, PA-28-235, PA-32-260, and PA-32-300 aircraft. The bulletin recommends incorporating Piper Service Bulletin 1199 to enhance inspection frequency and replacement times for the main landing gear torque link assemblies.
What Changed
SAIB CE-10-17 recommends more frequent inspections and updated replacement intervals for the main landing gear torque link assemblies on affected Piper PA-28 and PA-32 aircraft, supplementing the existing mandatory inspections required by AD 72-08-06. This bulletin does not introduce a new airworthiness directive but advises operators to adopt the enhanced procedures outlined in Piper Service Bulletin 1199.
Why It Matters
This bulletin is important because it addresses a safety concern involving the potential failure of the main landing gear torque link, which could lead to landing gear detachment and aircraft damage. Operators and maintenance personnel benefit from the recommended increased inspection frequency to detect cracks earlier, especially in aircraft experiencing frequent landings or hard landings, thereby improving safety and reducing risk of gear failure.
What To Do
Owners and operators of affected Piper PA-28 and PA-32 aircraft should continue complying with the mandatory inspections of AD 72-08-06 and are advised to incorporate the more frequent inspection intervals and replacement times specified in Piper Service Bulletin 1199. There is no mandatory compliance deadline stated, but adopting these recommendations is encouraged to enhance safety. For further details, operators should consult Piper SB 1199 and SAIB CE-05-29R1.
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