Strut AD?

[t30mg]

I thought the strut AD was a mandatory replacement.

But after reading in the forums here, it seems there may be a way around it?

Does anyone know a sure way around it?

[Hank Jarrett]

Re: Strut AD?

Short answer, you can replace them, inspect them (over and over and over again) or modify them (send them to WagAero and, if they aren't rusted inside) have them modified.
Hank

[mulwyk]

Re: Strut AD?

Correct me if I'm wrong: the options are:

Replace them = $2000

Inspect them = $200 every 4 years

Modify them = $1000

[Hank Jarrett]

Re: Strut AD?

Prices may vary based on location and who you know, but yes, that looks pretty close.
Hank

[mulwyk]

Re: Strut AD?

Hank, I was shocked that the cost of the AMOC modification (sealing the struts) could be over $1000. So I went with the 4th option: Inspect and hope that the cost of modification comes down in 4 years.

Question: Can an owner do his own strut sealing modification, or is there a patent or something on the process?

[Hank Jarrett]

Re: Strut AD?

The AMOC involves drilling some holes, doing a visual inspection and cutting some material and welding the struts to seal them. Even if it was legal I don't think I would try it myself. I am looking at a simple proof load tool to test struts. I personally believe in TESTING over inspecting. The FAA REQUIRES the inspection, but the proof load is cheap and PROVES the strut is safe. Makes me more comfortable to do both. Hate to die because a part the FAA assured me was good by inspection failed in service.
I don't know the details (need to ask WagAero or the FAA) but I am pretty sure the process for an AMOC must be approved by the FAA for the site that is doing it. I suppose you could do it yourself, but the FAA would have to check your shop and process (give you an AMOC) and unless you have a LOT of struts, it will be cheaper to send them to Wag.
Besides, Wag is supporting us, we need to support them! They are good folks to work with and treat us right.
Hank

I STILL think we should get together and do a mass bungee replacement!

[Robert Lees]

Re: Strut AD?

New thread on bungees created here.

Rob

[t30mg]

Re: Strut AD?

thanks for that info!

[stormman]

Re: Strut AD?

Short answer, you can replace them, inspect them (over and over and over again) or modify them (send them to WagAero and, if they aren't rusted inside) have them modified.
Hank

A Ha
Knew if I waited long enough there would be hope for my like new front struts.

Now to get the front ones modified and purchase new rear ones

[Robert Lees]

Re: Strut AD?

Hello Norm...where's you been hidin'?

[Hank Jarrett]

Re: Strut AD?

Yea Norm, same here. I REFUSED to toss a beautiful set of four original 41 struts. Biggerst problem now is shipping. I tried a PVC pipe and it must weigh 10times as much as the struts. Shipping will be a FORTUNE!
If the stinking weather will give me a break I can build a crate lighter and safer for the struts (won't roll around in transit and I can put a couple of rope handles on it so it doesn't get dropped).
Too many projects, all of which have NO priority to "she who must be obeyed".
HAnk

[3Dreaming]

Re: Strut AD?

Yea Norm, same here. I REFUSED to toss a beautiful set of four original 41 struts. Biggerst problem now is shipping. I tried a PVC pipe and it must weigh 10times as much as the struts. Shipping will be a FORTUNE!
If the stinking weather will give me a break I can build a crate lighter and safer for the struts (won't roll around in transit and I can put a couple of rope handles on it so it doesn't get dropped).
Too many projects, all of which have NO priority to "she who must be obeyed".
HAnk

Hank, the solution is simple. RoadTrip

[Pearson]

Re: Strut AD?

Don't you guys know what those two little handle like things are welded to the lower longeron just in front of the tailwheel.

That is where you duct tape the rear end of your EXTERNAL LOAD.

The front end goes on top of the landing gear tie strut.

Roadtrip...heck no!

CROSSCOUNTRY !!!!! :-)

[Robert Lees]

Re: Strut AD?

Nice one Richard.

For work one time I took some 10' rough-sawn stringers down the back of the tailcone...worked a treat!

[Hank Jarrett]

Re: Strut AD?

How do I keep the wings from flapping with the struts tied to the side of the fuselage? Tried using cables but the wing tips still drag on the runway till you get up to about 30 MPH.
Hank