Fuel Leaks Originating From The Drain Valve Assembly On Certain Engines

The FAA has issued an emergency AD prompted by reports of fuel leaks originating from the drain valve assembly (DV) on certain Arriel engines. Investigation revealed that these fuel leaks were caused by non-compliant diaphragms. This condition, if not corrected, could result in an engine compartment fire, in-flight shutdown, and damage to the helicopter.

The AD applies to all Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A., Arriel 1A1, 1A2, 1B, 1C, 1C1, 1C2, 1D, 1D1, 1E2, 1K1, 1S and 1S1 turboshaft engines equipped with a drain valve assembly (DV) with a part number and a serial number listed in Appendix 5.1 in Safran Helicopter Engines Alert Mandatory Service Bulletin (MSB) A292 73 0851, Version A, dated January 31, 2017.

The FAA reviewed Safran Helicopter Engines Alert Mandatory Service Bulletin (MSB) A292 73 0851, Version A, dated January 31, 2017. The MSB describes procedures for inspecting, wrapping, and replacing the DV.

The agency is issuing this AD after evaluating all the relevant information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop in other products of the same type design.

This AD requires inspection, wrapping, and replacing affected DVs. It is effective immediately.

(Image from file)

FMI: AD