AD/VW/3 - Rear Bearing

Overview

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, as amended by F2006B07594, addresses a specific issue related to the airworthiness of Volkswagen derivative piston engines, particularly the Revmaster R2100 series engines. Enacted by the Commonwealth of Australia, this legislative instrument aims to ensure the safety and reliability of civil aviation operations by mandating modifications to the No 1 main bearing (rear) of these engines. The directive requires the installation of a locating dowel for both bearing halves to enhance the engine's performance and safety. Compliance with this directive is mandatory and must be undertaken at the next disassembly of the crankcase assembly, unless already completed. The policy objective underpinning this legislation is to maintain the highest standards of airworthiness and mitigate any potential risks associated with engine failure, thereby protecting the safety of all individuals involved in civil aviation activities.

Scope and Application

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998, specifically Part 39 - 106 concerning Civil Aviation Safety Authority Schedule of Airworthiness Directives, applies to entities and individuals who operate or maintain Revmaster R2100 series engines used in aircraft. This regulation is designed to ensure that these engines meet the necessary safety standards set by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). The directive is applicable across the Commonwealth of Australia, thereby affecting aviation entities operating within the national jurisdiction. The regulation mandates that unless the specified modification to the No 1 main bearing (rear) by providing a locating dowel for both bearing halves has already been accomplished, it must be carried out at the next disassembly of the crankcase assembly. This ensures ongoing airworthiness and compliance with safety standards. The regulation does not explicitly state any exclusions or exemptions, implying that all applicable engines must comply with the directive. Furthermore, the scope and application of this directive can be extended or refined through subordinate instruments issued by CASA.

Key Provisions

The Civil Aviation Regulations 1998 (Cth), specifically Part 39 - 106, details the Civil Aviation Safety Authority's (CASA) schedule of airworthiness directives, including AD/VW/3 concerning Volkswagen Derivative Piston Engines. This directive pertains to the Rear Bearing (8/88) of the Revmaster R2100 series engines (section 39 - 106(1)). The primary requirement of this directive is to modify the No 1 main bearing (rear) by installing a locating dowel for both bearing halves (section 39 - 106(2)). This modification must be carried out unless it has already been completed during the next disassembly of the crankcase assembly (section 39 - 106(3)). Under these regulations, the entities governed by this directive are obligated to ensure compliance with the specified airworthiness modifications. This involves conducting a thorough inspection of the engines in question and performing the required modifications to the No 1 main bearing (rear) by installing the locating dowel for both bearing halves. The directive emphasises that compliance is mandatory unless the modification has already been accomplished during the last disassembly of the crankcase assembly. This obligation is designed to maintain the safety and reliability of the aircraft engines in service, ensuring they meet the stringent standards set forth by CASA. Failure to comply with the airworthiness directives outlined in the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998 (Cth) may result in significant legal consequences. CASA has the authority to enforce penalties and sanctions against non-compliant entities. The potential penalties for breaching these regulations can include fines and other civil or criminal repercussions. The exact penalties are not explicitly stated in the text provided, but it is clear that non-compliance can lead to serious ramifications for the entities involved. Ensuring adherence to these directives is crucial for maintaining the safety and airworthiness of aircraft engines in Australia.