Stache
Pre-takeoff checklist
I was doing some research for a friend of mine on his Beech V35B concerning all the AC 43.16 Safety Alerts. Maybe someone here can use them as well. The list isn't very long, but worth the read.
Maintenance Alerts 43.16
Beech Model V35B Bonanza
Fuel Tank Vent 2810
The left fuel tank was reported siphoning 5 gallons of fuel overboard from the inboard vent tube at the lower surface of the wing. Inspection of the fuel vent system revealed that tube, P/N 35-921155-127, located in the left wheel well, had not been drilled when the tube was welded on to form the "Y."
Part total time -- 2331 hours.
Beech Model V35B Bonanza
Nose Gear Steering 3250
The pilot complained of nose steering problems. Inspection revealed that the nose steering support assembly, P/N 002-410032-1, was damaged and cracked at the nose gear steering stop attach point. The bulkhead located at fuselage station 12.125 was also damaged and the nose gear steering yoke rod eye was severely worn. While accomplishing the required repairs, an improper repair was found in the same area. Rigging of the nose steering system in accordance wìth the manufacturer's maintenance manual combined with proper ground handling will help prevent damage to these components.
Part total time not reported.
Beech Model F33A, V35B, A36, and A36TC
ELT Remote Switch Placard
Some airplanes equipped with Narco Scientific Industries emergency locator transmitters (ELT) may have an incorrect remote switch placard installed. Inspect placard and replace, as needed, with Beech P/N 101-341101-71 B/C (black text on clear) or P/N 101-341101-71 W/C (white text on clear). Beech Class I Service Instructions No. 1187 provides further details.
Aircraft affected:
Model Serial
V35B D-10352 through D-10361
Beech; Model V35B; Bonanza; Defective Engine "Rod-Oil-Gauge Cap"; ATA 8550
While checking the engine oil quantity, the rod-oil-gauge cap failed to lock securely in place when it was installed. This aircraft incorporates a Teledyne Continental Motors (TCM) Model IO-520-BA engine.
During an investigation, the technician discovered one of the two locking tabs bent approximately 90 degrees up into the filler cap rod-plate spring housing. The locking tab was severely worn severely and was in imminent danger of separation. If the locking tab had separated, it would have entered the engine oil system. He speculated that over an extended period of time, repeated use and vibration contributed to the locking tab wear.
The submitter recommended checking the filler cap locking tabs each time the cap is removed. TCM designed a new filler cap (P/N 652171-1) which will alleviate this type defect. Part total time not reported
Beech Model V35B
Landing Gear Motor
The in-transit light remained illuminated and the gear was fully extended by the emergency method. An investigation revealed low power output from landing gear motor. The motor appeared satisfactory for continued use by visual inspection. Records indicate this was the original motor with 1,715 hours of aircraft time. Beech recommends motor replacement at 1,000 hours
Beech Models 33, 35, 36, 55 and 58
Emergency Gear Extension
There have been reports of the front spar carry-through cover being installed over the manual gear extension handle when the handle is in the stowed position. On reinstallation of front spar covers, be especially careful that the landing gear emergency extension handcrank has not been positioned in such a manner that its handle is covered by the front spar cover. If positioned incorrectly and covered, the stored handcrank cannot be moved to the engaged position to manually extend the gear.
MODEL NUMBER SERIAL NUMBER
V35B D-9287 and after
Beech Model V35B Bonanza
Tube Assembly P/N 35-580000-51
The tube assembly at the brake fluid reservoir outlet was found broken during an engine fire investigation. The broken tube allowed brake fluid to saturate the forward side of the firewall. This fluid accumulation contributed to the spread of the fire. The submitter recommends redesign of the tube or clamps installed to help prevent tube vibration and breakage.
Beech Model V35B Bonanza
Nose Landing Gear Downlock 3230
During an annual inspection, an operational test of the nose landing gear system revealed the downlock tension was abnormally high.
An investigation revealed the retraction rod assembly (P/N 36-820011-17) jamnuts were loose. This allowed the rod to turn, thereby increasing its length. The submitter recommended giving this area close attention during scheduled inspections and maintenance. Part total time-1,824 hours.
Beech Models V35B,95-B55, and 58P
Emergency Hand Crank -Main Landing Gear
There have been a few reports of spar covers installed so the landing gear emergency handle is covered and cannot be used. Investigation of these reports disclosed that the spar covers were installed after alterations in the field without any consideration given to the functioning of the emergency hand crank. It is recommended that the emergency landing gear hand crank be checked for clearance from obstructions prior to being returned to service after maintenance or servicing has been accomplished in the cabin area.
Beech; Model V35B; Bonanza; Severe Corrosion; ATA 5730
This aircraft is equipped with an alcohol wing anti-icing system installed in accordance with Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) SA2239CE.
During an annual inspection, the technician discovered corrosion on the lower exterior surface of the right wing skin. This area is located beneath the alcohol anti-ice tank. The technician removed the wing skin revealing excessive corrosion on all the surrounding structural members. The technician determined the cause of this damage was moisture trapped in the alcohol tank “StyroFoam” liner. He speculated the moisture collected from condensation and a lack of ventilation inside the wing compartment. The corrosion severity required replacement of the wing skin. The submitter installed an aluminum tank liner and provided a means for air circulation. Part total time not reported
Beech; Model V35B; Bonanza; Defective Engine Exhaust System Muffler; ATA 7800
While inspecting the engine, the technician discovered several bulges on the left muffler. The technician removed the muffler (P/N 701-20) and heat shield and found several large holes in the muffler. The holes were not visible until the heat shield was removed. The submitter could not determine a cause for this defect; however, he suggested maintenance personnel remove the muffler heat shield during each scheduled inspection to check for bulges and/or holes in the muffler. Part total time not reported.
Beech Model V35B
Fuel Quantity Indicator, P/N 58-364041-1
An operator reported erratic fuel quantity indication. The indicator unit was warped from extreme heat (mounted on the glare shield, it received reflected heat). Three other units were previously replaced due to the same condition. Aircraft time on this unit - 564 hours
Beech Model V35B
During a basic visual inspection of the engine, the left muffler was noted as having several bulges. Upon removal of the muffler and heat shield, the muffler had several large holes that were not visible until the heat shield was removed. cause unknown. Submitter suggested heat shield be removed for closer inspection of muffler during 1oo hour/annual inspections.
Beech Models V35B, A36,E55 and 58
Emergency Exit
During inspection of one each of the listed Beech models, it was found that the emergency exits failed to open as per placard instructions, (PULL PIN, PUSH WINDOW OUT). Further inspection found the tab on the back side of the handle assembly catches on the back of the hooks on the window. The exit would function properly if the window was opened first, then the pin pulled and the window pushed out.
A 2-year computer search of the service difficulty data base found similar problems existed on another Beech model A36, two D55s and one 95-55 and one 95C55.
Beech Model V35B
Instrument Light Bulbs
Smoke was detected coming from the instrument panel during a short flight of less than 30 minutes. After landing, it was determined that the instrument light bulbs were oversize and caused the plastic lens covers to overheat and smoke.
Beech Model V35B
Lost flight instruments shortly after take off. Found the gyro instruments would tumble when the gear was retracted and instrument air pressure drop to near zero. Air pressure and instrument operation returned to normal when gear was extended. Inspection found the plastic tubing protruded into the wheel well far enough for the nose wheel to contact and obstruct it when the gear was retracted. Evidence of the same condition was noted on an other aircraft model V35B.
Beech Model V35B Bonanza
Broken Shunt
The ammeter began showing erratic indications from full charge to full discharge. Inspection revealed the alternator system to be satisfactory. While tracing wiring during further inspection, the ammeter shunt was found to be broken causing the erratic indications. Part total time not reported.
Beech; Model V35B; Bonanza; Smoke Odor in the Cockpit; ATA 2822
Shortly after takeoff, the pilot smelled smoke in the cockpit. He returned to the departure airport and landed safely. The technician discovered fuel leaking from the engine-driven fuel pump (P/N 638154-16) case halves. He found evidence of a "flash" fire and suspected it caused the smoke odor. The submitter stated the fuel pump case halves were not exceptionally loose; however, a small amount of fuel did escape. It is possible the gasket shrunk enough to cause thìs defect. Part time since overhaul-1,500 hours.
Beech; Model V35B; Bonanza; Landing Gear Failure; ATA 3230
During a landing sequence, the right main landing gear collapsed.
The technician discovered the right main landing gear leg assembly (P/N 35-815129) was defective. A bolt (P/N AN5-22/M) and bushing (P/N 35-815124) attach the leg assembly to the main gear. Also, there is a lubrication fitting (grease zerk) installed at this attachment point. (Refer to the illustration.) The bolt and bushing were partially frozen and binding even though lubrication (grease) was evident at bushing sides. The binding action compromised the full extension of the downlock and caused a false "down-and-locked" indication in the cockpit.
The submitter speculated that during landing, a crosswind caused enough side load on the gear to disengage the downlock mechanism. He suggested the bolt and bushing for both main gears be removed, cleaned, inspected for condition, lubricated, and reinstalled every 300 hours of operating time. Part total time-5,943 hours.
Beech; Model V35B
On annual inspection of rudders at the center attach fitting aft spar mount, slight rust was noted. Further inspection revealed 5 out of the 8 attach nuts on the spar attach were cracked through to the bolt threads. These nuts are cracked only o the bottom area of nut. Looking down at the attach nuts will not show cracks. Tell tale rust on the bolt threads is the only top side indicator. Recommend that NAS679a nut be inspected or replaced with MS21042 or MS21083n. These nuts are used in other locations on the plane. Exposed nuts are more susceptible.
Beech Model V35B Bonanza
Landing Gear Failure 3230
The pilot reported the landing gear operated intermittently when selected to the "up" position. Generally, the gear would come half-way up and then hang. Response to selecting the "down" position was correct. During a system operational test, the problem was traced to wire numbers G17A20 and G15C20. These wires were found broken approximately 30 inches from the left landing gear safety switch. Both wires were routed wìth one other wire and the bundle was encased in a plastic sleeve at the point where they were broken. The plastic sleeve showed no sign of damage. The submitter speculated the wires had been kinked when they were installed and after 15 years of use, work hardened to the point of failure. Part total time-1,768.
Beech Model 35 throughV35B Bonanza
Fairlead BlockP/N 35-660033
One repair station reports finding an average of five broken fairlead blocks a week on the 35 through the V35B Beech ruddervator fin. The failures are occurring at attach points.
Beech Model V35B
Braze Assembly Rod, P/N 35-815125-602
The left braze assembly rod was hitting the actuating retract arm, P/N 45-810090, when in the up and locked position. The braze assembly rod was found cracked at the lower stamping and the unit was twisted from the end of the rod to the bearing. Total aircraft time - 111 hours.
Beech Model V35B Bonanza
Fuel Bladder
The aircraft owner requested that the fuel quick drains be replaced on both bladder tanks. The left tank quick drain nipple crumbled as the new drain was being installed, causing the tank to continue leaking. Upon removal of the tank, the remaining portion of the nipple disintegrated and both vent nipples broke. Inspection revealed extensive deterioration of the corners and sides of the tank. According to the report, the tank was thought to have been installed September 1983, as a temporary ferry tank and not for extended use. Part total time - 1233 hours.
Stache
Maintenance Alerts 43.16
Beech Model V35B Bonanza
Fuel Tank Vent 2810
The left fuel tank was reported siphoning 5 gallons of fuel overboard from the inboard vent tube at the lower surface of the wing. Inspection of the fuel vent system revealed that tube, P/N 35-921155-127, located in the left wheel well, had not been drilled when the tube was welded on to form the "Y."
Part total time -- 2331 hours.
Beech Model V35B Bonanza
Nose Gear Steering 3250
The pilot complained of nose steering problems. Inspection revealed that the nose steering support assembly, P/N 002-410032-1, was damaged and cracked at the nose gear steering stop attach point. The bulkhead located at fuselage station 12.125 was also damaged and the nose gear steering yoke rod eye was severely worn. While accomplishing the required repairs, an improper repair was found in the same area. Rigging of the nose steering system in accordance wìth the manufacturer's maintenance manual combined with proper ground handling will help prevent damage to these components.
Part total time not reported.
Beech Model F33A, V35B, A36, and A36TC
ELT Remote Switch Placard
Some airplanes equipped with Narco Scientific Industries emergency locator transmitters (ELT) may have an incorrect remote switch placard installed. Inspect placard and replace, as needed, with Beech P/N 101-341101-71 B/C (black text on clear) or P/N 101-341101-71 W/C (white text on clear). Beech Class I Service Instructions No. 1187 provides further details.
Aircraft affected:
Model Serial
V35B D-10352 through D-10361
Beech; Model V35B; Bonanza; Defective Engine "Rod-Oil-Gauge Cap"; ATA 8550
While checking the engine oil quantity, the rod-oil-gauge cap failed to lock securely in place when it was installed. This aircraft incorporates a Teledyne Continental Motors (TCM) Model IO-520-BA engine.
During an investigation, the technician discovered one of the two locking tabs bent approximately 90 degrees up into the filler cap rod-plate spring housing. The locking tab was severely worn severely and was in imminent danger of separation. If the locking tab had separated, it would have entered the engine oil system. He speculated that over an extended period of time, repeated use and vibration contributed to the locking tab wear.
The submitter recommended checking the filler cap locking tabs each time the cap is removed. TCM designed a new filler cap (P/N 652171-1) which will alleviate this type defect. Part total time not reported
Beech Model V35B
Landing Gear Motor
The in-transit light remained illuminated and the gear was fully extended by the emergency method. An investigation revealed low power output from landing gear motor. The motor appeared satisfactory for continued use by visual inspection. Records indicate this was the original motor with 1,715 hours of aircraft time. Beech recommends motor replacement at 1,000 hours
Beech Models 33, 35, 36, 55 and 58
Emergency Gear Extension
There have been reports of the front spar carry-through cover being installed over the manual gear extension handle when the handle is in the stowed position. On reinstallation of front spar covers, be especially careful that the landing gear emergency extension handcrank has not been positioned in such a manner that its handle is covered by the front spar cover. If positioned incorrectly and covered, the stored handcrank cannot be moved to the engaged position to manually extend the gear.
MODEL NUMBER SERIAL NUMBER
V35B D-9287 and after
Beech Model V35B Bonanza
Tube Assembly P/N 35-580000-51
The tube assembly at the brake fluid reservoir outlet was found broken during an engine fire investigation. The broken tube allowed brake fluid to saturate the forward side of the firewall. This fluid accumulation contributed to the spread of the fire. The submitter recommends redesign of the tube or clamps installed to help prevent tube vibration and breakage.
Beech Model V35B Bonanza
Nose Landing Gear Downlock 3230
During an annual inspection, an operational test of the nose landing gear system revealed the downlock tension was abnormally high.
An investigation revealed the retraction rod assembly (P/N 36-820011-17) jamnuts were loose. This allowed the rod to turn, thereby increasing its length. The submitter recommended giving this area close attention during scheduled inspections and maintenance. Part total time-1,824 hours.
Beech Models V35B,95-B55, and 58P
Emergency Hand Crank -Main Landing Gear
There have been a few reports of spar covers installed so the landing gear emergency handle is covered and cannot be used. Investigation of these reports disclosed that the spar covers were installed after alterations in the field without any consideration given to the functioning of the emergency hand crank. It is recommended that the emergency landing gear hand crank be checked for clearance from obstructions prior to being returned to service after maintenance or servicing has been accomplished in the cabin area.
Beech; Model V35B; Bonanza; Severe Corrosion; ATA 5730
This aircraft is equipped with an alcohol wing anti-icing system installed in accordance with Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) SA2239CE.
During an annual inspection, the technician discovered corrosion on the lower exterior surface of the right wing skin. This area is located beneath the alcohol anti-ice tank. The technician removed the wing skin revealing excessive corrosion on all the surrounding structural members. The technician determined the cause of this damage was moisture trapped in the alcohol tank “StyroFoam” liner. He speculated the moisture collected from condensation and a lack of ventilation inside the wing compartment. The corrosion severity required replacement of the wing skin. The submitter installed an aluminum tank liner and provided a means for air circulation. Part total time not reported
Beech; Model V35B; Bonanza; Defective Engine Exhaust System Muffler; ATA 7800
While inspecting the engine, the technician discovered several bulges on the left muffler. The technician removed the muffler (P/N 701-20) and heat shield and found several large holes in the muffler. The holes were not visible until the heat shield was removed. The submitter could not determine a cause for this defect; however, he suggested maintenance personnel remove the muffler heat shield during each scheduled inspection to check for bulges and/or holes in the muffler. Part total time not reported.
Beech Model V35B
Fuel Quantity Indicator, P/N 58-364041-1
An operator reported erratic fuel quantity indication. The indicator unit was warped from extreme heat (mounted on the glare shield, it received reflected heat). Three other units were previously replaced due to the same condition. Aircraft time on this unit - 564 hours
Beech Model V35B
During a basic visual inspection of the engine, the left muffler was noted as having several bulges. Upon removal of the muffler and heat shield, the muffler had several large holes that were not visible until the heat shield was removed. cause unknown. Submitter suggested heat shield be removed for closer inspection of muffler during 1oo hour/annual inspections.
Beech Models V35B, A36,E55 and 58
Emergency Exit
During inspection of one each of the listed Beech models, it was found that the emergency exits failed to open as per placard instructions, (PULL PIN, PUSH WINDOW OUT). Further inspection found the tab on the back side of the handle assembly catches on the back of the hooks on the window. The exit would function properly if the window was opened first, then the pin pulled and the window pushed out.
A 2-year computer search of the service difficulty data base found similar problems existed on another Beech model A36, two D55s and one 95-55 and one 95C55.
Beech Model V35B
Instrument Light Bulbs
Smoke was detected coming from the instrument panel during a short flight of less than 30 minutes. After landing, it was determined that the instrument light bulbs were oversize and caused the plastic lens covers to overheat and smoke.
Beech Model V35B
Lost flight instruments shortly after take off. Found the gyro instruments would tumble when the gear was retracted and instrument air pressure drop to near zero. Air pressure and instrument operation returned to normal when gear was extended. Inspection found the plastic tubing protruded into the wheel well far enough for the nose wheel to contact and obstruct it when the gear was retracted. Evidence of the same condition was noted on an other aircraft model V35B.
Beech Model V35B Bonanza
Broken Shunt
The ammeter began showing erratic indications from full charge to full discharge. Inspection revealed the alternator system to be satisfactory. While tracing wiring during further inspection, the ammeter shunt was found to be broken causing the erratic indications. Part total time not reported.
Beech; Model V35B; Bonanza; Smoke Odor in the Cockpit; ATA 2822
Shortly after takeoff, the pilot smelled smoke in the cockpit. He returned to the departure airport and landed safely. The technician discovered fuel leaking from the engine-driven fuel pump (P/N 638154-16) case halves. He found evidence of a "flash" fire and suspected it caused the smoke odor. The submitter stated the fuel pump case halves were not exceptionally loose; however, a small amount of fuel did escape. It is possible the gasket shrunk enough to cause thìs defect. Part time since overhaul-1,500 hours.
Beech; Model V35B; Bonanza; Landing Gear Failure; ATA 3230
During a landing sequence, the right main landing gear collapsed.
The technician discovered the right main landing gear leg assembly (P/N 35-815129) was defective. A bolt (P/N AN5-22/M) and bushing (P/N 35-815124) attach the leg assembly to the main gear. Also, there is a lubrication fitting (grease zerk) installed at this attachment point. (Refer to the illustration.) The bolt and bushing were partially frozen and binding even though lubrication (grease) was evident at bushing sides. The binding action compromised the full extension of the downlock and caused a false "down-and-locked" indication in the cockpit.
The submitter speculated that during landing, a crosswind caused enough side load on the gear to disengage the downlock mechanism. He suggested the bolt and bushing for both main gears be removed, cleaned, inspected for condition, lubricated, and reinstalled every 300 hours of operating time. Part total time-5,943 hours.
Beech; Model V35B
On annual inspection of rudders at the center attach fitting aft spar mount, slight rust was noted. Further inspection revealed 5 out of the 8 attach nuts on the spar attach were cracked through to the bolt threads. These nuts are cracked only o the bottom area of nut. Looking down at the attach nuts will not show cracks. Tell tale rust on the bolt threads is the only top side indicator. Recommend that NAS679a nut be inspected or replaced with MS21042 or MS21083n. These nuts are used in other locations on the plane. Exposed nuts are more susceptible.
Beech Model V35B Bonanza
Landing Gear Failure 3230
The pilot reported the landing gear operated intermittently when selected to the "up" position. Generally, the gear would come half-way up and then hang. Response to selecting the "down" position was correct. During a system operational test, the problem was traced to wire numbers G17A20 and G15C20. These wires were found broken approximately 30 inches from the left landing gear safety switch. Both wires were routed wìth one other wire and the bundle was encased in a plastic sleeve at the point where they were broken. The plastic sleeve showed no sign of damage. The submitter speculated the wires had been kinked when they were installed and after 15 years of use, work hardened to the point of failure. Part total time-1,768.
Beech Model 35 throughV35B Bonanza
Fairlead BlockP/N 35-660033
One repair station reports finding an average of five broken fairlead blocks a week on the 35 through the V35B Beech ruddervator fin. The failures are occurring at attach points.
Beech Model V35B
Braze Assembly Rod, P/N 35-815125-602
The left braze assembly rod was hitting the actuating retract arm, P/N 45-810090, when in the up and locked position. The braze assembly rod was found cracked at the lower stamping and the unit was twisted from the end of the rod to the bearing. Total aircraft time - 111 hours.
Beech Model V35B Bonanza
Fuel Bladder
The aircraft owner requested that the fuel quick drains be replaced on both bladder tanks. The left tank quick drain nipple crumbled as the new drain was being installed, causing the tank to continue leaking. Upon removal of the tank, the remaining portion of the nipple disintegrated and both vent nipples broke. Inspection revealed extensive deterioration of the corners and sides of the tank. According to the report, the tank was thought to have been installed September 1983, as a temporary ferry tank and not for extended use. Part total time - 1233 hours.
Stache