SAIB CE-04-89 —

CE-04-89 September 17, 2004 www.faa.gov/certification/aircraft This is information only. Recommendations aren’t mandatory.

Introduction

This Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB) alerts you, owners and operators of The New Piper Inc. Model PA-34-220T airplanes, Seneca III serial numbers 34-8133001 through 34-8633031, 3433001 through 3433216 and 3448001 through 3448037; and Seneca IV serial numbers 3448038 through 3448039, of possible cracks that may occur on the main landing gear trunnion housing with over 2,000 hours time-in-service (TIS).

Background

This SAIB is a result of an accident involving a Piper Seneca Model PA-34-220T airplane. The airplane experienced a structural failure of the main landing gear and collapse on the nose landing gear. Post accident examination revealed the right main landing gear was broken at the aft web area.

Recommendation

We highly recommend that you inspect and possibly replace the main landing gear trunnion. You may do these actions following Piper Service Bulletin No. 787C.

For Service Bulletin Information, Contact

The New Piper Aircraft, Inc., Customer Services, 2926 Piper Drive, Vero Beach, Florida 32960; phone: (772) 567-4361; fax: (772) 978-6584

For Further Information, Contact

M Hassan Amini, Aerospace Engineer, Atlanta Aircraft Certification Office, FAA Small Aircraft Directorate, One Crown Center, 1895 Phoenix Boulevard, Suite 450, Atlanta, GA 30349; phone: (770) 703-6080; fax: (770) 703-6097; email: [email protected].