Compass repair kit advice.

[Jim Reynolds]

Need to repair my leaking compass. There are two small picture frame gaskets in the repair kit. One rubber and one is cork. I know believe the rubber one goes behind the glass and I think the cork one goes in front of the glass. Do I have this right? I believe that was the way it was assembled. Thanks for your help.
Jim

[PA1195]

Re: Compass repair kit advice.

Rubber seal inside of glass/fiber or cork cushion outside of glass when my mechanic did mine. Expansion seal in the rear of the case. Submerge in fluid for evacuating bubbles.

Lots of discussion about who can service or repair aircraft instruments. Not my committee.

Gary

[Guest]

Re: Compass repair kit advice.

You guys help me maintain some of my IA skills, thanks.

Here's the reg;

§65.81 General privileges and limitations.

(a) A certificated mechanic may perform or supervise the maintenance, preventive maintenance or alteration of an aircraft or appliance, or a part thereof, for which he is rated (but excluding major repairs to, and major alterations of, propellers, and any repair to, or alteration of, instruments), and may perform additional duties in accordance with §§65.85, 65.87, and 65.95. However, he may not supervise the maintenance, preventive maintenance, or alteration of, or approve and return to service, any aircraft or appliance, or part thereof, for which he is rated unless he has satisfactorily performed the work concerned at an earlier date. If he has not so performed that work at an earlier date, he may show his ability to do it by performing it to the satisfaction of the Administrator or under the direct supervision of a certificated and appropriately rated mechanic, or a certificated repairman, who has had previous experience in the specific operation concerned.

(b) A certificated mechanic may not exercise the privileges of his certificate and rating unless he understands the current instructions of the manufacturer, and the maintenance manuals, for the specific operation concerned.

Part 43 list repairs to instruments as major repairs.

The best compasses I have had were overhauled at Century Instrument. I confess that I had fixed two of my own before I was aware of this reg but they were also crappy compared to the ones I sent out.

Dave R

[PA1195]

Re: Compass repair kit advice.

Thanks Dave for the regulation link above. After the "alleged procedure performed by person or persons unknown" it was related to me that it might not have happened. No logs were signed but the compass was re-swung and a new compass card generated.

It wasn't my current mechanic that did this nor was it for my Taylorcraft. So yes better follow the regs although many do their compasses and might drink the rest of the whiskey to forget it happened.

Gary

[Jim Reynolds]

Re: Compass repair kit advice.

Thanks Dave for the regulation link above. After the "alleged procedure performed by person or persons unknown" it was related to me that it might not have happened. No logs were signed but the compass was re-swung and a new compass card generated.

It wasn't my current mechanic hat did this nor was it for my Taylorcraft. So yes better follow the regs although many do their compasses and might drink the rest of the whiskey to forget it happened.

Gary

Thanks to one and all for the advice.
Jim