Airworthiness Directives; Lycoming Engines, 86721-86723 [2024-25365]
Download as PDF
Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 211 / Thursday, October 31, 2024 / Rules and Regulations
(h) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
(1) The Manager, West Certification
Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve
AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In
accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your
request to your principal inspector or local
Flight Standards District Office, as
appropriate. If sending information directly
to the manager of the West Certification
Branch, send it to the attention of the person
identified in paragraph (i) of this AD.
Information may be emailed to: AMOC@
faa.gov.
(2) Before using any approved AMOC,
notify your appropriate principal inspector,
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/
certificate holding district office.
Federal Aviation Administration
(i) Related Information
For more information about this AD,
contact Johann Magana, Aviation Safety
Engineer, FAA, 3960 Paramount Boulevard,
Lakewood, CA 90712; phone: (562) 627–
5322; email: johann.magana@faa.gov.
(j) Material Incorporated by Reference
lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with RULES1
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference of
the material listed in this paragraph under 5
U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) You must use this material as
applicable to do the actions required by this
AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) DART Aerospace Operation
Instructional Manual for General Pull Cable
Rigging and Testing Procedure, Revision B,
dated May 12, 2023.
(ii) DART Aerospace Service Bulletin (SB)
No. SB2020–09, Revision A, dated March 16,
2021.
(iii) DART Aerospace SB No. SB2021–01,
Revision A, dated December 28, 2021.
(iv) DART Aerospace SB No. SB2021–02,
dated April 30, 2021.
(v) DART Aerospace SB No. SB2021–03,
dated June 30, 2021.
(vi) DART Aerospace SB No. SB2022–01,
dated March 14, 2022.
(3) For material identified in this AD,
contact Dart Aerospace, LTD., 1270 Aberdeen
Street, Hawkesbury, ON, K6A 1K7, Canada;
phone: 1–613–632–5200; fax: 1–613–632–
5246; website: dartaero.com.
(4) You may view this material at the FAA,
Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest
Region, 10101 Hillwood Parkway, Room 6N–
321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information
on the availability of this material at the
FAA, call (817) 222–5110.
(5) You may view this material at the
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA,
visit www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/
ibr-locations or email fr.inspection@nara.gov.
Issued on October 28, 2024.
Victor Wicklund,
Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2024–25390 Filed 10–30–24; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:20 Oct 30, 2024
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14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2024–1695; Project
Identifier AD–2023–00783–E; Amendment
39–22869; AD 2024–21–02]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Lycoming
Engines
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for
Lycoming Engines (Lycoming) model
engines that have a certain connecting
rod assemblies installed. This AD was
prompted by several reports of
connecting rod failures, which resulted
in uncontained engine failure and inflight shutdowns (IFSDs). This AD
requires repetitive oil inspections for
bronze metal particulates and, if found,
additional inspections of the connecting
rod bushings for damage, proper fit,
movement, and wear, and replacement
if necessary. As terminating action to
the connecting rod bushing inspections,
this AD requires replacement of the
connecting rod bushings with parts
eligible for installation. The FAA is
issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective December 5,
2024.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of December 5, 2024.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD
docket at regulations.gov under Docket
No. FAA–2024–1695; or in person at
Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays. The AD docket
contains this final rule, any comments
received, and other information. The
address for Docket Operations is U.S.
Department of Transportation, Docket
Operations, M–30, West Building
Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200
New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC
20590.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
• For Lycoming material identified in
this AD, contact Lycoming Engines, 652
Oliver Street, Williamsport, PA 17701;
phone: (800) 258–3279; website:
lycoming.com/contact/knowledge-base/
publications.
• You may view this material at the
FAA, Airworthiness Products Section,
SUMMARY:
PO 00000
Frm 00009
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
86721
Operational Safety Branch, 1200 District
Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803. For
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call (817) 222–
5110. It is also available at
regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–
2024–1695.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
James Delisio, Aviation Safety Engineer,
FAA, 1701 Columbia Avenue, College
Park, GA 30337; phone: (516) 228–7321;
email: james.delisio@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to Lycoming model engines that
have certain connecting rod assemblies
installed. The NPRM published in the
Federal Register on June 28, 2024 (89
FR 53911). The NPRM was prompted by
several reports of connecting rod
failures, which resulted in uncontained
engine failure and IFSDs, and a
manufacturer investigation where it was
determined that affected connecting rod
small end bushings may be installed on
additional populations of Lycoming
engines. The manufacturer also
determined that degradation of the
connecting rod small end bushings is
detectable during oil change
inspections. In the NPRM, the FAA
proposed to require repetitive oil
inspections for bronze metal
particulates and, if found, additional
inspections of the connecting rod
bushings for damage (e.g. deterioration,
missing metal), proper fit, movement,
and wear, and replacement if necessary.
As terminating action to the connecting
rod bushing inspections, the NPRM also
proposed to require replacement of the
connecting rod bushings with parts
eligible for installation. The FAA is
issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness
Directive
Comments
The FAA received one comment from
Aeroclub de Columbia. The following
presents the comment received on the
NPRM and the FAA’s response to the
comment.
Request To Clarify Scheduling of
Inspections
Aeroclub de Columbia requested that
the FAA confirm whether the recurrent
inspections required by paragraph (g) of
the proposed AD should also be
scheduled monthly for aircraft in 14
CFR part 91 (non-commercial)
operations. Aeroclub de Columbia noted
E:\FR\FM\31OCR1.SGM
31OCR1
86722
Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 211 / Thursday, October 31, 2024 / Rules and Regulations
that Lycoming Service Bulletin 480F
suggests changing the oil every 50 hours
or every 4 months, but several aircraft
maintenance manuals specify oil
replacement every 50 hours without a
calendar time restriction.
To clarify, this AD does not define or
mandate the frequency of oil changes
after the initial oil change. Subsequent
oil changes are part of the engine’s
regular maintenance program, therefore
the recurring frequency is outside the
scope of this AD. Although repetitive
inspections are required during this
regular maintenance interval, they are
tied to the operator’s oil change
frequency and that frequency is not
being defined by this AD. The FAA did
not change this AD as a result of this
comment.
Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data,
considered any comments received, and
determined that air safety requires
adopting this AD as proposed.
Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD
to address the unsafe condition on these
products. Except for minor editorial
changes, and any other changes
described previously, this AD is
adopted as proposed in the NPRM.
None of the changes will increase the
economic burden on any operator.
Material Incorporated by Reference
Under 1 CFR Part 51
procedures for inspection of the
connecting rod bushings for damage,
proper fit, movement, and wear. This
material is reasonably available because
the interested parties have access to it
through their normal course of business
or by the means identified in the
ADDRESSES section.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects 16,000 engines installed on
airplanes of U.S. registry.
The FAA estimates the following
costs to comply with this AD:
The FAA reviewed Lycoming
Mandatory Service Bulletin No. 630A,
dated June 13, 2017, which specifies
ESTIMATED COSTS
Action
Labor cost
Inspect oil ............................................................
Inspect connecting rod bushings ........................
Replace connecting rod bushings (per bushing)
2 work-hours × $85 per hour = $170 .................
1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 .....................
4.5 work-hours × $85 per hour = $382 ..............
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
section 106, describes the authority of
the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII:
Aviation Programs, describes in more
detail the scope of the Agency’s
authority.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking
under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section
44701: General requirements. Under
that section, Congress charges the FAA
with promoting safe flight of civil
aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and
procedures the Administrator finds
necessary for safety in air commerce.
This regulation is within the scope of
that authority because it addresses an
unsafe condition that is likely to exist or
develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
This AD will not have federalism
implications under Executive Order
Parts cost
13132. This AD will not have a
substantial direct effect on the States, on
the relationship between the national
government and the States, or on the
distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866,
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation
in Alaska, and
(3) Will not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
The Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
Cost per
product
$65
0
380
Cost on U.S.
operators
$235
85
762
$3,760,000
1,360,000
12,192,000
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive:
■
2024–21–02 Lycoming Engines:
Amendment 39–22869; Docket No.
FAA–2024–1695; Project Identifier AD–
2023–00783–E.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective December 5, 2024.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Lycoming Engines
(Lycoming) model engines that have an
affected part and part number (P/N) installed
and are assembled within the ship date
range, as specified in Table 1 to paragraph (c)
of this AD.
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TABLE 1 TO PARAGRAPH (c)—AFFECTED P/NS
P/N
Affected part
LW–13923 .......................................................................
LW–11750 .......................................................................
78030 ..............................................................................
LW–19332 .......................................................................
LW–13865 .......................................................................
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Connecting
Connecting
Connecting
Connecting
Connecting
Frm 00010
Rod
Rod
Rod
Rod
Rod
Fmt 4700
Ship date range
Bushing ...............................................
Assembly .............................................
Assembly .............................................
Assembly .............................................
Assembly .............................................
Sfmt 4700
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31OCR1
01/30/2009–11/17/2015
01/30/2009–11/19/2015
01/30/2009–03/31/2016
01/30/2009–01/03/2016
01/30/2009–02/14/2017
Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 211 / Thursday, October 31, 2024 / Rules and Regulations
86723
TABLE 1 TO PARAGRAPH (c)—AFFECTED P/NS—Continued
P/N
Affected part
77450 ..............................................................................
LW–13422 .......................................................................
LW–13937 .......................................................................
LW–15288 .......................................................................
Note 1 to paragraph (c): The affected parts
are known to be installed on Lycoming
Model AEIO–320 series, AEIO–360 series,
AEIO–390 series, AEIO–540 series, AEIO–
580–B1A, AIO–320 series, AIO–360 series,
HIO–360 series, HIO–390–A1A, HIO–540–
A1A, HO–360 series, IO–320 series, IO–360
series, IO–390 series, IO–540 series, IVO–
360–A1A, IVO–540–A1A, LHIO–360 series,
LIO–320 series, LIO–360 series, LO–360
series, LTIO–540 series, LTO–360 series, O–
233–A1, O–235 series, O–320 series, O–340
series, O–360 series, O–435 series, O–540
series, SO–580 series, TEO–540 series, TIGO–
541 series, TIO–360 series, TIO–540 series,
TIO–541 series, TIVO–540–A2A, TO–360
series, TVO–435 series, TVO–540–A1A, VO–
360 series, VO–435 series, VO–540 series,
and VSO–580–A1A engines.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)
Code 8500, Engine (Reciprocating).
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by several reports
of connecting rod failures resulting in
uncontained engine failure and in-flight
shutdowns (IFSDs). The FAA is issuing this
AD to prevent connecting rod failure. The
unsafe condition, if not addressed, could
result in engine failure, an IFSD, and loss of
control of the aircraft.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
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(g) Required Actions
(1) At the next oil change or within 4
months after the effective date of this AD,
whichever occurs first, and thereafter at
every oil change until the bushing
replacement required by either paragraph
(g)(3) or (4) of this AD is done, perform a
visual inspection of the engine oil filter, oil
pressure screen, and oil suction screen
(depending on the engine configuration) for
bronze metal particulates. The actions
required by this paragraph may be performed
by the owner/operator (pilot) holding at least
a private pilot certificate and must be entered
into the aircraft records showing compliance
with this AD in accordance with 14 CFR
43.9(a) and 91.417(a)(2)(v). The record must
be maintained as required by 14 CFR 91.417,
121.380, or 135.439.
Note 2 to paragraph (g)(1): Guidance for
engine oil filter, oil pressure screen, and oil
suction screen inspection instructions and
identification of metallic solids may be found
in Lycoming Mandatory Service Bulletin No.
(MSB) 480F, dated May 25, 2017 (Lycoming
MSB 480F).
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:20 Oct 30, 2024
Jkt 265001
Connecting
Connecting
Connecting
Connecting
Rod
Rod
Rod
Rod
Assembly
Assembly
Assembly
Assembly
.............................................
.............................................
.............................................
.............................................
(2) If, during any inspection required by
paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, any bronze metal
particulates are found and the source is
identified as the connecting rod bushings,
before further flight, inspect all affected
connecting rod bushings for damage (e.g.
deterioration, missing metal), proper fit,
movement, and wear in accordance with
‘‘Connecting Rod Bushing Inspection,’’ of
Lycoming MSB 630A, dated June 13, 2017.
Note 3 to paragraph (g)(2): Guidance for
identifying the source of metallic
contamination may be found in Table 3 of
Lycoming MSB 480F.
(3) If the connecting rod bushings fail any
inspection required by paragraph (g)(2) of
this AD, before further flight, replace the
connecting rod bushings with parts eligible
for installation. This terminates the repetitive
inspection required by paragraph (g)(1) of
this AD.
(4) At the next engine overhaul, replace the
connecting rod bushings with parts eligible
for installation. This terminates the repetitive
inspection required by paragraph (g)(1) of
this AD.
(h) Definition
For the purpose of this AD, a ‘‘part eligible
for installation’’ is any connecting rod
bushing having P/N 01K28983.
(i) Credit for Previous Actions
You may take credit for the actions
required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD if you
performed those actions before the effective
date of this AD using Lycoming MSB 480F.
(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, East Certification Branch,
FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs
for this AD, if requested using the procedures
found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with
14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your
principal inspector or local Flight Standards
District Office, as appropriate. If sending
information directly to the manager of the
branch office, send it to the attention of the
person identified in paragraph (k)(1) of this
AD and email to: 9-avs-nyaco-cos@faa.gov.
(2) Before using any approved AMOC,
notify your appropriate principal inspector,
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/
certificate holding district office.
(k) Additional Information
(1) For more information about this AD,
contact James Delisio, Aviation Safety
Engineer, FAA, 1701 Columbia Avenue,
College Park, GA 30337; phone: (516) 228–
7321; email: james.delisio@faa.gov.
(2) Service information identified in this
AD that is not incorporated by reference is
PO 00000
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Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
Ship date range
01/30/2009–02/14/2017
01/30/2009–02/14/2017
01/30/2009–02/14/2017
01/30/2009–02/14/2017
available at the address specified in
paragraph (l)(3) of this AD.
(l) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
(IBR) of the material listed in this paragraph
under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) You must use this material as
applicable to do the actions required by this
AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Lycoming Engines Mandatory Service
Bulletin No. 630A, dated June 13, 2017.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For Lycoming Engines material
identified in this AD, contact Lycoming
Engines, 652 Oliver Street, Williamsport, PA
17701; phone: (800) 258–3279; website:
lycoming.com/contact/knowledge-base/
publications.
(4) You may view this material at the FAA,
Airworthiness Products Section, Operational
Safety Branch, 1200 District Avenue,
Burlington, MA 01803. For information on
the availability of this material at the FAA,
call (817) 222–5110.
(5) You may view this material at the
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA,
visit www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/
ibr-locations or email fr.inspection@nara.gov.
Issued on October 28, 2024.
Victor Wicklund,
Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2024–25365 Filed 10–30–24; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND
SECURITY
Coast Guard
33 CFR Part 105
[Docket No. USCG–2022–0052]
RIN 1625–AC80
TWIC—Reader Requirements; Second
Delay of Effective Date
Coast Guard, DHS.
Final rule.
AGENCY:
ACTION:
The Coast Guard is further
delaying the effective date for certain
facilities affected by the final rule
entitled ‘‘Transportation Worker
Identification Credential (TWIC)—
Reader Requirements,’’ published in the
SUMMARY:
E:\FR\FM\31OCR1.SGM
31OCR1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 89, Number 211 (Thursday, October 31, 2024)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 86721-86723]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2024-25365]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2024-1695; Project Identifier AD-2023-00783-E;
Amendment 39-22869; AD 2024-21-02]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Lycoming Engines
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
Lycoming Engines (Lycoming) model engines that have a certain
connecting rod assemblies installed. This AD was prompted by several
reports of connecting rod failures, which resulted in uncontained
engine failure and in-flight shutdowns (IFSDs). This AD requires
repetitive oil inspections for bronze metal particulates and, if found,
additional inspections of the connecting rod bushings for damage,
proper fit, movement, and wear, and replacement if necessary. As
terminating action to the connecting rod bushing inspections, this AD
requires replacement of the connecting rod bushings with parts eligible
for installation. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective December 5, 2024.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of December 5,
2024.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA-2024-1695; or in person at Docket Operations between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD
docket contains this final rule, any comments received, and other
information. The address for Docket Operations is U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor,
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
For Lycoming material identified in this AD, contact
Lycoming Engines, 652 Oliver Street, Williamsport, PA 17701; phone:
(800) 258-3279; website: lycoming.com/contact/knowledge-base/publications.
You may view this material at the FAA, Airworthiness
Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 1200 District Avenue,
Burlington, MA 01803. For information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call (817) 222-5110. It is also available at
regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-2024-1695.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: James Delisio, Aviation Safety
Engineer, FAA, 1701 Columbia Avenue, College Park, GA 30337; phone:
(516) 228-7321; email: [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to Lycoming model engines
that have certain connecting rod assemblies installed. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on June 28, 2024 (89 FR 53911). The
NPRM was prompted by several reports of connecting rod failures, which
resulted in uncontained engine failure and IFSDs, and a manufacturer
investigation where it was determined that affected connecting rod
small end bushings may be installed on additional populations of
Lycoming engines. The manufacturer also determined that degradation of
the connecting rod small end bushings is detectable during oil change
inspections. In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to require repetitive oil
inspections for bronze metal particulates and, if found, additional
inspections of the connecting rod bushings for damage (e.g.
deterioration, missing metal), proper fit, movement, and wear, and
replacement if necessary. As terminating action to the connecting rod
bushing inspections, the NPRM also proposed to require replacement of
the connecting rod bushings with parts eligible for installation. The
FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these
products.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive
Comments
The FAA received one comment from Aeroclub de Columbia. The
following presents the comment received on the NPRM and the FAA's
response to the comment.
Request To Clarify Scheduling of Inspections
Aeroclub de Columbia requested that the FAA confirm whether the
recurrent inspections required by paragraph (g) of the proposed AD
should also be scheduled monthly for aircraft in 14 CFR part 91 (non-
commercial) operations. Aeroclub de Columbia noted
[[Page 86722]]
that Lycoming Service Bulletin 480F suggests changing the oil every 50
hours or every 4 months, but several aircraft maintenance manuals
specify oil replacement every 50 hours without a calendar time
restriction.
To clarify, this AD does not define or mandate the frequency of oil
changes after the initial oil change. Subsequent oil changes are part
of the engine's regular maintenance program, therefore the recurring
frequency is outside the scope of this AD. Although repetitive
inspections are required during this regular maintenance interval, they
are tied to the operator's oil change frequency and that frequency is
not being defined by this AD. The FAA did not change this AD as a
result of this comment.
Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data, considered any comments
received, and determined that air safety requires adopting this AD as
proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products. Except for minor editorial changes, and
any other changes described previously, this AD is adopted as proposed
in the NPRM. None of the changes will increase the economic burden on
any operator.
Material Incorporated by Reference Under 1 CFR Part 51
The FAA reviewed Lycoming Mandatory Service Bulletin No. 630A,
dated June 13, 2017, which specifies procedures for inspection of the
connecting rod bushings for damage, proper fit, movement, and wear.
This material is reasonably available because the interested parties
have access to it through their normal course of business or by the
means identified in the ADDRESSES section.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 16,000 engines installed on
airplanes of U.S. registry.
The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD:
Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per Cost on U.S.
Action Labor cost Parts cost product operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspect oil.............................. 2 work-hours x $85 per hour $65 $235 $3,760,000
= $170.
Inspect connecting rod bushings.......... 1 work-hour x $85 per hour 0 85 1,360,000
= $85.
Replace connecting rod bushings (per 4.5 work-hours x $85 per 380 762 12,192,000
bushing). hour = $382.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements.
Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight
of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for
practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary
for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that
authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to
exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States,
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866,
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
(3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
The Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive:
2024-21-02 Lycoming Engines: Amendment 39-22869; Docket No. FAA-
2024-1695; Project Identifier AD-2023-00783-E.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective December 5, 2024.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Lycoming Engines (Lycoming) model engines
that have an affected part and part number (P/N) installed and are
assembled within the ship date range, as specified in Table 1 to
paragraph (c) of this AD.
Table 1 to Paragraph (c)--Affected P/Ns
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
P/N Affected part Ship date range
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
LW-13923..................................... Connecting Rod Bushing.............. 01/30/2009-11/17/2015
LW-11750..................................... Connecting Rod Assembly............. 01/30/2009-11/19/2015
78030........................................ Connecting Rod Assembly............. 01/30/2009-03/31/2016
LW-19332..................................... Connecting Rod Assembly............. 01/30/2009-01/03/2016
LW-13865..................................... Connecting Rod Assembly............. 01/30/2009-02/14/2017
[[Page 86723]]
77450........................................ Connecting Rod Assembly............. 01/30/2009-02/14/2017
LW-13422..................................... Connecting Rod Assembly............. 01/30/2009-02/14/2017
LW-13937..................................... Connecting Rod Assembly............. 01/30/2009-02/14/2017
LW-15288..................................... Connecting Rod Assembly............. 01/30/2009-02/14/2017
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note 1 to paragraph (c): The affected parts are known to be
installed on Lycoming Model AEIO-320 series, AEIO-360 series, AEIO-
390 series, AEIO-540 series, AEIO-580-B1A, AIO-320 series, AIO-360
series, HIO-360 series, HIO-390-A1A, HIO-540-A1A, HO-360 series, IO-
320 series, IO-360 series, IO-390 series, IO-540 series, IVO-360-
A1A, IVO-540-A1A, LHIO-360 series, LIO-320 series, LIO-360 series,
LO-360 series, LTIO-540 series, LTO-360 series, O-233-A1, O-235
series, O-320 series, O-340 series, O-360 series, O-435 series, O-
540 series, SO-580 series, TEO-540 series, TIGO-541 series, TIO-360
series, TIO-540 series, TIO-541 series, TIVO-540-A2A, TO-360 series,
TVO-435 series, TVO-540-A1A, VO-360 series, VO-435 series, VO-540
series, and VSO-580-A1A engines.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 8500, Engine
(Reciprocating).
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by several reports of connecting rod
failures resulting in uncontained engine failure and in-flight
shutdowns (IFSDs). The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent connecting
rod failure. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in
engine failure, an IFSD, and loss of control of the aircraft.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Required Actions
(1) At the next oil change or within 4 months after the
effective date of this AD, whichever occurs first, and thereafter at
every oil change until the bushing replacement required by either
paragraph (g)(3) or (4) of this AD is done, perform a visual
inspection of the engine oil filter, oil pressure screen, and oil
suction screen (depending on the engine configuration) for bronze
metal particulates. The actions required by this paragraph may be
performed by the owner/operator (pilot) holding at least a private
pilot certificate and must be entered into the aircraft records
showing compliance with this AD in accordance with 14 CFR 43.9(a)
and 91.417(a)(2)(v). The record must be maintained as required by 14
CFR 91.417, 121.380, or 135.439.
Note 2 to paragraph (g)(1): Guidance for engine oil filter, oil
pressure screen, and oil suction screen inspection instructions and
identification of metallic solids may be found in Lycoming Mandatory
Service Bulletin No. (MSB) 480F, dated May 25, 2017 (Lycoming MSB
480F).
(2) If, during any inspection required by paragraph (g)(1) of
this AD, any bronze metal particulates are found and the source is
identified as the connecting rod bushings, before further flight,
inspect all affected connecting rod bushings for damage (e.g.
deterioration, missing metal), proper fit, movement, and wear in
accordance with ``Connecting Rod Bushing Inspection,'' of Lycoming
MSB 630A, dated June 13, 2017.
Note 3 to paragraph (g)(2): Guidance for identifying the source
of metallic contamination may be found in Table 3 of Lycoming MSB
480F.
(3) If the connecting rod bushings fail any inspection required
by paragraph (g)(2) of this AD, before further flight, replace the
connecting rod bushings with parts eligible for installation. This
terminates the repetitive inspection required by paragraph (g)(1) of
this AD.
(4) At the next engine overhaul, replace the connecting rod
bushings with parts eligible for installation. This terminates the
repetitive inspection required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD.
(h) Definition
For the purpose of this AD, a ``part eligible for installation''
is any connecting rod bushing having P/N 01K28983.
(i) Credit for Previous Actions
You may take credit for the actions required by paragraph (g)(1)
of this AD if you performed those actions before the effective date
of this AD using Lycoming MSB 480F.
(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, East Certification Branch, FAA, has the
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19,
send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information
directly to the manager of the branch office, send it to the
attention of the person identified in paragraph (k)(1) of this AD
and email to: [email protected].
(2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding
district office.
(k) Additional Information
(1) For more information about this AD, contact James Delisio,
Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1701 Columbia Avenue, College Park,
GA 30337; phone: (516) 228-7321; email: [email protected].
(2) Service information identified in this AD that is not
incorporated by reference is available at the address specified in
paragraph (l)(3) of this AD.
(l) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the material listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) You must use this material as applicable to do the actions
required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Lycoming Engines Mandatory Service Bulletin No. 630A, dated
June 13, 2017.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For Lycoming Engines material identified in this AD, contact
Lycoming Engines, 652 Oliver Street, Williamsport, PA 17701; phone:
(800) 258-3279; website: lycoming.com/contact/knowledge-base/publications.
(4) You may view this material at the FAA, Airworthiness
Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 1200 District Avenue,
Burlington, MA 01803. For information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call (817) 222-5110.
(5) You may view this material at the National Archives and
Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability
of this material at NARA, visit www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations or email [email protected].
Issued on October 28, 2024.
Victor Wicklund,
Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2024-25365 Filed 10-30-24; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P