AD 2020-22-18 Prompted By A Report Of A Propeller Gearbox (PGB) Development Test Conducted By The Manufacturer

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Rolls-Royce Corporation (RRC) AE 2100A, AE 2100D2, AE 2100D2A, and AE 2100P model turboprop engines.

 This AD was prompted by a report of a propeller gearbox (PGB) development test conducted by the manufacturer, in which high vibration occurred due to a fatigue crack that initiated in the PGB shaft and carrier assembly. This AD requires assignment of usage hours to the PGB shaft and  carrier assembly at the next engine shop visit and replacement of PGB shaft and carrier assemblies prior to exceeding the new life limits established by the manufacturer. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. This AD is effective December 15, 2020.

Supplementary Information: The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all RRC AE 2100A, AE 2100D2, AE 2100D2A, and AE 2100P model turboprop engines. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on August 11, 2020 (85 FR 48482). The NPRM was prompted by a report of a PGB development test conducted by the manufacturer, in which high vibration occurred due to a fatigue crack that initiated in the PGB shaft and carrier assembly.

In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to require the assignment of usage  hours to the PGB shaft and carrier assembly at the next engine shop visit and replacement of PGB shaft and carrier assemblies before exceeding the new life limits established by the manufacturer. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

FMI: www.regulations.gov