Antennas

This VHF comm antenna was squawked for fluttering. Inspection revealed antenna was installed with no supporting doubler. Upon removal, a 5.5-inch radial crack was discovered around the antenna base, with a crack in an adjacent stringer. Skin under antenna also corroded due to no sealant being applied to base during installation.Part Total Time: Unknown

Editorial Staff

Wednesday, January 28, 2015 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Many antenna failures are attributed to improper installation, including inadequate sealing, insufficient structural support, or unsuitable mounting methods.
Manufacturer errors, such as incorrect product specifications or recurring internal design flaws, also contribute significantly to antenna malfunctions.
These deficiencies result in a range of problems, from structural damage and corrosion to loss of signal, vibration, and complete antenna separation.

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Beech Model C33 Debonair
Improper Mounting
This VHF comm antenna was squawked for fluttering. Inspection revealed antenna was installed with no supporting doubler. Upon removal, a 5.5-inch radial crack was discovered around the antenna base, with a crack in an adjacent stringer. Skin under antenna also corroded due to no sealant being applied to base during installation.
Part Total Time: Unknown

Beech Model 200 Super King Air
Incorrect Specification
Aircraft was equipped with GPS/comm antenna that was recalled by manufacturer. Installed new antenna, p/n CI2480-100. During flt, replacement antenna vibrated loud enough to be heard in cockpit. Antenna removed and subsequently installed in same location on two other Beech 200s with no vibration noticed. Spec sheet for CI2480-100 previously stated maximum 350 KTAS and FL550. Revised spec sheet states 210 KTAS max at and FL200. Clarification is being sought from manufacturer.
Part Total Time: 0.0 hours