SAIB CE-04-86 —

CE-04-86 September 13, 2004 www.faa.gov/certification/aircraft This is information only. Recommendations aren’t mandatory.

Introduction

This Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin alerts you, owners and operators of The New Piper Aircraft Inc. Model PA-31-350 airplanes, of the need to be aware of service publications relating to the combustion heater fuel regulator and shutoff valve on your airplane.

Background

Reports of fuel leakage at the fuel regulator and shutoff valve of various combustion heater models led us to issue AD 2001-08-01. The actions specified in the AD were later clarified via the issuance of AD 2001-17-13, which superseded AD 2001-08-01. Both of these airworthiness actions referenced JanAero Devices Service Bulletin Number A-107. Continued leakage events have resulted in a revision to this service bulletin. You may find a copy of Service Bulletin A-107A, dated September 6, 2002, at the following website: http://www.kellyaerospace.com/service_pdf/A-107A.pdf.

A review of service data associated with these fuel leakage events indicates that nearly 90 percent of the reports involve Piper Model PA-31-350 airplanes. The configuration of the airplane fuel system yields a working pressure for the fuel regulator and shutoff valve that is at or above the rating of the valve. In response to this finding, Kelly Aerospace has introduced a new replacement valve for the Piper PA-31-350 application. Kelly Aerospace Service Information Letter A-108 (http://www.kellyaerospace.com/service_pdf/A-108.pdf) introduces this valve, and Piper Vendor Service Publication VSP-150 supports its installation.

Recommendation

We would like to highlight the importance of a thorough visual inspection of the fuel regulator and shutoff valve for evidence of fuel leakage during each 100-hour/annual inspection in accordance with the requirements stated in Appendix D of 14 CFR 43. Specific procedures for this inspection are included in Kelly Aerospace Service Bulletin A-107A. In the event that fuel leakage is noted, we recommend that the valve be replaced with the new, higher rated valve, as noted in Service Bulletin A-108 and VSP-150.

For Other Information Contact

Kevin Brane, Aerospace Engineer, FAA Central Region, Atlanta Aircraft Certification Office, One Crown Center, 1895 Phoenix Boulevard, Suite 450, Atlanta, GA 30349; phone: (770)-703-6063; fax: (770) 703-6097; email: [email protected].