EMERGENCY AD ISSUED FOR 'SLICK' MAGNETOS
On Wednesday the FAA released emergency AD 2000-11-51 mandating replacement of certain Unison (Slick) magnetos on Teledyne Continental
Motors (TCM) O-300, IO-360, TSIO-360, and LTSIO-520-AE engines. Affected magnetos include Unison models 6314, 6324, and 6364 serial numbers 99110001 through 99129999 inclusive. The FAA issued the AD in response several incidents including an in-flight failure of an IO-360 installed in a Cirrus SR-20 in which the magneto impulse coupling stop pin migrated out of the magneto frame, causing damage to the gear train of the engine and ultimately engine failure. The AD mandates removal and replacement of affected magnetos within 10 hours TIS after receipt of the AD. Upon removal, suspect magnetos must be inspected to ensure that the stop pin is still present. If it's missing, the AD requires inspection of the gear train or oil sump to find the missing pin and to look for additional damage. TCM will extend warranty coverage to factory installations still under warranty. Unison will cover the cost of required inspections and parts replacements for all aftermarket parts and will extend warranty coverage for any inspections/repairs resulting from missing stop pins on a case-by-case basis. Affected aircraft owners are encouraged to contact Unison customer service at 815-965-4700 for warranty information. For more information and a copy of the AD contact AOPA's Pilot Assistance Hotline at 800-872-2672.