Due to a recent failure of a nose landing gear leg lower support bracket, we would like to remind all owners of A22LS Foxbat, Kelpie and A32 Vixxen to make sure all regular maintenance is complied with in full and in accordance with their specific aircraft maintenance manual requirements. The landing gear system can be easily forgotten or overlooked during maintenance and during the daily pre-flight inspection, however, it is important to closely inspect all of its components.
How does this affect me?
The A22LS Foxbat and A32 Vixxen Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM) requires 100 hourly checks of the landing gear system, with a specific requirement for inspection and greasing of the lower fork attachment bracket and bellcrank due to its trailing-link operation. While the failure record on flight school/club aircraft averages over 7,000 landings, this inspection and maintenance action should be carried out by all owners and operators on a regular basis.
Aeroprakt will shortly issue an official service bulletin with a recommendation for inspection of the lower attachment bracket, however, in the meantime please find here a short guide which is intended to provide additional information to ensure the correct method is used. Failure to comply with the AMM inspection may result in the pivot bolt seizing and a failure of the lower attachment bracket.
Please note: It is not sufficient to lubricate this bolt/bracket with silicone or lithium spray. Please use the correct heavy duty anti-corrosion grease as instructed!
The guide can also be found on our website under Maintenance & Technical > Aircraft Maintenance Information.
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