I have communicated with Andy Draper and also Malcolm McBride who looks after
continuing
airworthiness for the LAA. Both wanted to know what MTOW was being
used. It would be helpful if those who have found cracks could pass on this info
to me and I will forward it.
Regards
Brian Davies
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-europa-list-server@matronics.com
[mailto:owner-europa-list-server@matronics.com] On Behalf Of Tim Ward
Sent: 12 November 2018 20:08
Subject: Re: Europa-List: LG frame cracks
Hi Jim,
Thanks for your Landing Gear Information.
I tried to check my LG the other day, after Johns article, the best way one can
without removing the engine and firewall. Not really satisfactory. The only way
to do a satisfactory check is to remove the engine frame itself, which is a
big job. Checked the mounting bolts and all ok.
May well have to be a mandatory airworthiness directive?
It would be interesting to see what the Europa Company say?
Cheers,
Tim
Tim Ward
12 Waiwetu Street,
Fendalton,
Christchurch, 8052
New Zealand
ward.t@xtra.co.nz
Mob +64 210640221
> On 13/11/2018, at 8:45 AM, h&jeuropa <butcher43@att.net> wrote:
>
>
> We discovered a potential safety issue and wanted to share this so others
> become
aware of the situation and can inspect their aircraft.
>
> We are in the process of our annual condition inspection on our mono wheel.
This year is extensive since motor mounts and bungee cord need replaced. After
being alerted by John Wigney of possible cracks in the lower tubes of the LG
frame, we inspected and discovered our frame is cracked like his. The cracks
are very difficult to find as they are somewhat hidden by the firewall and
behind
the vertical tubes of the frame. Using Johns photos, a strong light, and
magnifying glass, we were able to see a crack in the starboard tube. A photo
with our iPad actually gave the best indication of a crack. A dye penetrant
test confirmed the crack. The crack in the port tube wasnt evident until the
powder coat was removed. The attached document has good photos of Johns cracks.
>
> We removed the frame and had it repaired by an experienced A&P (FAA mechanic)
using techniques called out in AC 43-13. We reamed out the tubes and machined
a tube to be a tight fit similar to Mod 72 for the upper tubes except the insert
is the full length of the tube. The insert is welded to the original tube
with rosette welds, and the cracks were stop drilled prior to welding. One
bolt hole was elongated so we changed it to AN4.
>
> A side note, when we started to remove the LG frame, we found that some of the
mounting bolts were no longer tight. When doing your inspection, we suggest
you check these nuts and if any are at all loose, inspect very carefully for
cracks.
>
> Our mono wheel kit was purchased April 2000, kit A185 and has 975 hours.
>
> Jim & Heather
>
>
>
>
> Read this topic online here:
>
> http://forums.matronics.com/viewtopic.php?p=484894#484894
>
>
>
>
> Attachments:
>
> http://forums.matronics.com//files/181001a_photo_summary_of_landing_gear_frame_cracks_131.pdf
>
>
>
>
>
>
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