Wing Spar AD

[NFL20]

Got it. Once again, thanks for the speedy reply Larry.

Dave

[Skymaster337B]

I'm not sure a "new wing" is required. There are ways to repair the spare that are "acceptable" to the administrator. However, to my knowledge no one has done it yet...nor ever had to.

[WebMaster]

You could be correct. I am not certain of the exact remediation steps that would be required.

[Skymaster337B]

There are no published corrective actions that I'm aware of. However, it would be up to the IA and his interpetation of the all powerful "acceptable methods to the administrator." Which just might require a new wing...if there is such a thing as a new wing.

[skymstr02]

The spar inspection and repair procedure does not have to be performed by a mechanic holding an inspection authorization, as any appropriately certificated mechanic may perform this function.

Since the airworthiness directive doesn't call out a specific repair, the mechanic is forced to either:

1. Replace the wing with a servicable unit (likely)
2. Replace the wing with a new unit (unlikely)
3. Hire the services of a designated engineering representative to evaluate the inspection results and develop a repair procedure, this can be very expensive, and will most likely require the existing wing to be removed to enact the repairs anyway. The IA will have to approve these repairs as they will be classified as major repairs.

[ipasgas1]

I guess this is related but... have there been any reports of inflight structural failures in a 337, not related to flying into a storm? I know these did some high stress manuevers in Vietnam and wondered if they had any reported failures? Has anyone used a 337 for airshow aerobatic performances (I don't want to, just curious as to the strength).
Dan

[WebMaster]

Steve Weaver used to fly a Skymaster called "Bodacious" on the airshow circuit. Smoke on the rear engine only.

The FAC 337's all have to have the spar inspection before being registered as normal category.