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Camshaft gear failures generate airworthiness concern sheet

The FAA has issued an airworthiness concern sheet in response to instances of camshaft gear teeth failures on several Continental Motors Inc. engines. The airworthiness concern sheet is intended as a means for the FAA to coordinate airworthiness concerns with aircraft owners and transmit them to AOPA for dissemination.

Image courtesy of Continental Motors.

The airworthiness concern sheet refers to camshaft gears with part numbers 655516 and 656031. It notes that there have been three occurrences of Continental Motors Inc. camshaft gear 656031 with failed gear teeth due to fatigue, a condition that can result in loss of engine power in flight and a forced landing. Continental Motors Inc. has only seen failures involving the gear with part number 655516, it said.

Camshaft gear part number 655516 was manufactured from 1999 to 2002, and was superseded by part number 656031 from 2002 to 2005. In 2009, Continental Motors Inc. introduced part number 656818 via Service Bulletin SB05-8A, superseding part number 656031.

At this time, the FAA has not determined what type of corrective action should be taken, if any.  The resolution of this airworthiness concern could involve airworthiness directive or a special airworthiness information bulletin, or the FAA could determine that no action is needed at this time. Members with information relating to this airworthiness concern sheet are encouraged to contact AOPA.

 
AOPA ePublishing staff
AOPA ePublishing Staff editors are experienced pilots, flight instructors, and aircraft owners who have a passion for bringing you the latest news and AOPA announcements.
Topics: FAA Information and Services, Ownership, Aircraft Maintenance

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