Incorrect Filter Installed On Superior Air Parts Adapters May Cause Oil Loss

An FAA Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB) released by the FAA this week focuses on potential problems when an incorrect oil filter is installed on Superior Air Parts, Inc. (SAP) oil filter adapter, part number (P/N) SL2157, which can be installed on certain Lycoming Engines reciprocating engines.

The FAA has received one report of an incorrect oil filter installed on an SAP oil filter adapter, P/N SL2157. The incorrect oil filter did not have an internal oil pressure by-pass valve. This caused oil starvation of the aircraft engine. Currently, only Champion CH48108-1 or CH48109-1, or Tempest
AA48108 or AA48109 oil filters are eligible for installation on SAP oil filter adapter, P/N SL2157. Only oil filters with an internal oil pressure by-pass valve can be used with the SAP oil filter adapter,P/N SL2157.

The SAP oil filter adapter, P/N SL2157, was originally approved for use on SAP SV-360 engine models listed on Type Certificate Data Sheet E00001SC. A list of Lycoming Engines reciprocating engine models that are eligible for having this adapter installed, is in the attached SAP Service Letter L09-01 A.

The FAA does not feel that the problem warrants an AD for now, but it does recommend that you determine whether the correct oil filter is installed, and if not, to install eligible oil filters that have an internal oil pressure by-pass valve. The agency says you should not modify the oil filter adapter, P/N SL2157, to accept any other oil filters.

FMI: www.faa.gov