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Shrinking Gaskets

The following information is derived from the FAA’s Service Difficulty Reports and Aviation Maintenance Alerts

The crew for the planned mission, Robert Behnken (left) and Douglas Hurley, had made a practice run in January for the flight test in May. SpaceX
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Multiple landing gear malfunctions were reported across different aircraft types, including uncommanded retraction due to a faulty switch, collapse from a corroded downlock switch and improper rigging, and uncommanded extension caused by a failed actuator.
  • Engine components experienced issues such as shrinking rocker box gaskets leading to major oil leaks, and failed starter adapters showing roughness at notably low operating hours.
  • An ignition system failure occurred with a Slick magneto due to a separated follower arm and corrosion, resulting in poor engine performance.
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Beech C90GT King Air
Malfunctioning Gear Switch

After takeoff, the landing gear retracted with the landing gear control switch in the down-and-locked position. The landing gear retracted uncommanded as soon as the aircraft achieved a weight-off-wheels configuration during the takeoff roll.
Part Total Time: 1023 hours

288

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