|
|
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<--->>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
<< Lancair Builders' Mail List >>
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<--->>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
>>
I received a Safety Warning letter #31 from Parker Aerospace. It points
out the weakness of the pneumatic gyros and the potential hazard of a
gyro failure from a failed vacuum pump, the need for partial panel
training and proper scans that include the vacuum gage. I appreciate
the manufacturer sending out this information.
I am a little confused. Parker included an FAA safety bulletin
(FAA-P-87400-52). It states "if you use your airplane for IFR flight,
you should install either a back-up pneumatic power source or
electrically powered stand-by gyroscopic instruments."
The warning furnished by Parker states "1. A back-up pneumatic power
source for the air driven gyros, or a back-up electric attitude gyro
instrument must be installed in all aircraft which fly IFR."
How does one get from "should" to "must"? Is the is the FAA speaking?
Other more cynical may ask: Is this a "CYA" on Parker's behalf? Or Is
this Parker' marketing department speaking wanting to boost sales of
their backup gyros?
Can anyone provide any clarity on the FAA requirements?
Would anyone install a back up vacuum pump or second electrical
artificial horizon? Other solutions?
My solution is to replace the vacuum pump every 200 hours. Am I naive?
What is the failure rate of vacuum pumps in 200 hours?
Also, my autopilot is operated on the electrical H.S.I. The electrical
system has a battery, alternator and a standby alternator. The
autopilot is go/no-go item for me on hard IFR.
P.S. My wife says to put in a back-up or she is not going to Oshkosh
with me. Now we are getting to the real reason for the inquiry! See
you in Oshkosh and maybe my wife.
Carl Cadwell
N25CL and 50 hours
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
LML website: http://www.olsusa.com/mkaye/maillist.html
LML Builders' Bookstore: http://www.buildersbooks.com/lancair
Please send your photos and drawings to marvkaye@olsusa.com.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
|
|