Wed, Apr 02, 2003
Lycoming has successfully completed the installation of
replacement crankshafts in the 797 TIO-540 engines that were
returned for repair under Service Bulletin 552 and has shipped
these engines so they can be returned to service. Of the 601
engines tested under Service Bulletin 553, 417 have passed and most
of the remaining 184 have been repaired and returned to
service.
More than 1,100 crankshafts have been forged using a new, more
vigorous manufacturing process and have passed newly developed
tests.
"We made a promise to our customers that we would resolve this
replacement and repair issue by the early part of the second
quarter and we have delivered on that promise," said Richard
Millman, executive in charge of Lycoming.
In the fall of 2002, Lycoming committed to
replacing crankshafts in engines covered by Service Bulletins 552
and 553. Owners and operators of aircraft powered by Lycoming
TIO-540 engines of more than 300 or more horsepower were required
to comply with the service bulletins and to replace their
crankshafts. The cost of the crankshaft replacement, as well as
various related costs, were paid by Lycoming as part of its
Customer Care Program. In addition to repairing and replacing
internal parts, the Program includes alternate transportation or
fixed costs (including interest on loans, insurance {ground
insurance} and hangar rental); remote hangar fees; and an
additional 12 month engine warranty from the date the engine is
returned to service. More than $35 million was earmarked to cover
the costs of the repair and customer care program.
"The repair process included the thorough disassembly,
inspection, crankshaft replacement, assembly and full testing
consistent with our commitment to flight safety," said Mike Wolf,
president of Lycoming. "I am happy to report that we have met our
goals ahead of schedule and sent these engines back to their
owners."
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