Allied Ag Cat (formerly Schweizer, Grumman) G-164 with TPE331 Engine — Engine Mount Cracking
- Published
AI-generated summary of the official EASA document. Verify against the PDF before acting.
What to do
Owners and operators should visually inspect the forward engine mount weld areas within 10 hours time-in-service after receiving this bulletin and clean the area thoroughly before inspection. Subsequent inspections should be repeated every 100 hours time-in-service. Any engine mount cracking should be reported to the FAA Aerospace Engineers at the Fort Worth Aircraft Certification Office with detailed information about the aircraft and engine conversion.
Summary
The Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin FAA SAIB CE-16-02 addresses engine mount cracking concerns in Allied Ag Cat Models G-164A, G-164B, and G-164C airplanes converted to Honeywell TPE331 turboprop engines. It informs owners and operators about fatigue cracking found in the forward engine mount weld areas of these converted aircraft. The bulletin provides inspection recommendations but does not mandate regulatory action.
What changed
This bulletin introduces awareness of engine mount fatigue cracking in Allied Ag Cat G-164 series airplanes with Honeywell TPE331 engine conversions. It recommends visual inspections and cleaning procedures to detect potential cracks early. The bulletin clarifies that no unsafe condition currently exists to warrant an airworthiness directive under 14 CFR part 39.
Why it matters
This information is important for operators and maintenance personnel to prevent potential engine mount failures by early detection of fatigue cracks. Proactive inspections help maintain aircraft structural integrity and safety without regulatory penalties. Reporting findings to the FAA supports ongoing safety monitoring and potential future rulemaking.
Get the next one by email
New ADs and bulletins for your aircraft, summarized like this page, every Monday.