Cessna 310L Cracked Wheel A mechanic writes, “Upon changing a tire on a Cleveland wheel assembly on this aircraft, it was discovered the wheel half holding the bearing race was cracking. It had cracked over 180 degrees around the opening, which eventually could have (led) to a serious accident.” When technicians began to “flip” the tire to even out the wear, they found a loose bearing race. The wheel crack was then found, having progressed more than 180 degrees around the axle hole. Provided wheel p/ns are 199-64 and/or 40-40A. Part Total Time: 2200.0 hours. Diamond DA-20 Broken Horizontal Stabilizer Bolts The aircraft returned from a flight with both horizontal stabilizer mount bolts broken (p/n AN3-11A). Technicians removed the rudder and horizontal stabilizer to inspect 288
Wear and Tear
A mechanic writes, "Upon changing a tire on a Cleveland wheel assembly on this aircraft, it was discovered the wheel half holding the bearing race was cracking. It had cracked over 180 degrees around the opening, which eventually could have (led) to a serious accident." When technicians began to "flip" the tire to even out the wear, they found a loose bearing race. The wheel crack was then found, having progressed more than 180 degrees around the axle hole. Provided wheel p/ns are 199-64 and/or 40-40A.
Key Takeaways:
- Aircraft maintenance identified critical mechanical failures across various types, including a severely cracked wheel, broken horizontal stabilizer bolts, corroded cowling rivets due to material incompatibility, and a fatigued main landing gear bolt.
- These incidents underscore the vital importance of vigilant and thorough inspections, often extending beyond official service letter requirements, to detect potential catastrophic failures.
- The reports highlight issues such as material incompatibility, fatigue, and overlooked inspection items, emphasizing the need for continuous engineering review and manufacturer/regulatory attention to enhance aviation safety.
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