Recommends Inspection Of Nose Landing Gear On Certain Models

Cessna 300 and 400 Models and Series airplanes are the focus of a new FAA Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB) which recommends inspection of the landing gear (NLG) trunnion to ensure that cracks are not present. If cracks are present, the trunnion should be replaced because a failure during landing may cause significant damage to the airplane and may cause injury to the occupants.

Airplanes affected are all series of Cessna Models 310/335/340/401/402/404/411/414/421/425 and 441.

According to the FAA, the SAIB has been revised to remove the reference to the Reims 406. The Reims 406 utilizes a different part number trunnion and is not included as part of Cessna Service Bulletins MEB88-5 and CQB00-3.

In April 2013, a Cessna Model 414 airplane veered off the runway while landing and sustained significant damage. The subsequent investigation determined that the nose landing gear had separated from its mount at the trunnion and that a trunnion lug had sheared from the assembly. Laboratory evaluation determined a pre-existing crack was the cause of the failure.

The FAA recommends that owners, operators and maintenance personnel of Cessna Models 310/335/340/401/402/404/411/414/421 airplanes, comply with Cessna Service Bulletin MEB88-5, Revision 2, “Nose Gear Trunnion Inspection/Replacement”, dated October 2, 2000; or latest revision.

Owners of Cessna Models 425 and 441 airplanes, are urged to comply with Cessna Service Bulletin CQB00-3, “Nose Gear Trunnion Inspection/Replacement”, dated October 2, 2000; or latest revision.

FMI: SAIB