Thu, Nov 12, 2009
Float-Type Carburetors Indicated In Engine Fires
The FAA has issued a Special
Airworthiness Bulletin for potential hazards associated with
normally-aspirated carbureted engines. However, they say that for
the time being, the airworthiness concern is not an unsafe
condition that would warrantan AD.
The SAIB results from reports of numerous accidents and
incidents over the past 20 years that resulted from an engine
stoppage or engine fire involving float-type carburetors. Numerous
service information letters (SILs) and service bulletins (SBs) were
issued during that time to address float-type carburetor issues
related to poor idle cut-off and fuel leaking from the carburetor
after engine shutdown.
The FAA issued SAIB CE-06-33R1 in April 2006 to address those
conditions. These conditions are often the result of fuel leaking
into the carburetor float, a damaged or worn float, or a damaged or
worn float valve. Despite the availability of the SILs and SBs, the
FAA is still receiving reports of accidents and incidents resulting
from carburetor float anomalies. In comparison to the SILs and SBs
previously issued, the SAIB is applicable to all aircraft with
reciprocating engines with float-type carburetors installed and
provides more detail and focaused recommended actions.
The SAIB says pilots should examine the engine area for evidence
of fuel leakage during pre-flight inspection . During engine start,
be alert for carburetor flooding or the need for excessive leaning.
Hard starting might be an indicator of a deteriorating or damaged
carburetor float. During engine operation, excessive fuel
consumption and/or poor idle performance might indicate a
deteriorating or damaged carburetor float. Difficulty shutting down
the engine with the mixture cut-off control might be an indicator
of a deteriorating or damaged carburetor float. If any of these
conditions are observed, the pilot should have qualified
maintenance personnel inspect the aircraft before the next
flight.
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