EASA SIB CE-11-49
Air Tractor, Inc. AT-802, AT-802A Elevator Tab Control System
Summary
The Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin SAIB: CE-11-49 is an FAA informational bulletin addressing the elevator tab control system on Air Tractor, Inc. Models AT-802 and AT-802A airplanes. It highlights an airworthiness concern related to the elevator trim actuator attach clamp assembly bracket and provides guidance on inspection and lubrication of the elevator trim control system. The bulletin is not mandatory and does not constitute an airworthiness directive.
What Changed
SAIB CE-11-49 introduces recommendations for inspecting and lubricating the elevator trim/boost tab bushings every 100 hours time-in-service as per the Air Tractor owners manual. It also advises a one-time inspection of the elevator trim actuator clamp assembly bracket, part number 70857-1, for weld cracks and recommends replacing it with an improved bracket, part number 70857-5, if cracks are found. The improved bracket features welds on both sides to enhance durability.
Why It Matters
This bulletin matters because failure of the elevator trim actuator clamp assembly bracket can cause uncommanded pitch changes during flight, posing a safety risk. Operators and maintenance personnel must ensure proper lubrication and inspection to prevent binding and potential structural failure. Compliance with these recommendations helps maintain aircraft control integrity and avoid in-flight incidents.
What To Do
Operators of Air Tractor AT-802 and AT-802A airplanes should follow Snow Engineering Co. Service Letter #300, inspecting and lubricating the elevator trim/boost tab bushings every 100 hours time-in-service. They should perform a one-time inspection of the elevator trim actuator clamp assembly bracket for cracks and replace any cracked brackets with the improved part number 70857-5 before further flight. Any cracked brackets found should be reported to the FAA as instructed.
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