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Service Bulletin 24 Gallon Fuel Tanks Dakota Cub Aircraft is issuing a service bulletin on our 24 gallon fuel tanks. Part numbers DC10849-24G-25R (right hand), and DC10848-24G-32L (left hand). Please read the attached copy of the service bulletin, and if your tanks are suspect, please contact us to make arrangements to have your tanks inspected, and if necessary re-welded then re-tested. The attached pictures detail the differences in the fabrication / welding processes used in the construction of our tanks. Picture-1 illustrates the original welding process used on our first series of fuel tanks. The process produced a small weld area which is subject to the development of leaks. Picture-2 illustrates the optional welding process used on our second series of fuel tanks. The process produced a much larger weld area which corrects the areas prone to leaks. Picture-3 illustrates the optional fabrication process which eliminates the tank bottom weld seam on our current series of fuel tanks. Picture-4 illustrates the inspection of the tank weld size thru the inspection holes located and the #2 drag strut (outboard end of tank). Please inspect this area to determine which tank series you have. ONLY the first series tanks with the small weld area are subject to the service bulletin. Photo 1: Small bead weld on early tank (manufactured prior to June 2003). Inspect for fuel leaks prior to next flight and before each flight.
Photo 2: Large bead weld on later or re-welded tank. Not subject to service bulletin.
Photo 3: Revised fuel tank eliminates the bottom weld seam where failures occurred.
Photo 4: Large bead weld as seen through inspection hole.
SERVICE BULLETIN No. 0001 Subject: Fuel tanks installed IAW STC # SA 02171AK Part numbers – DC10849-24G-25R and DC10849-24G-32L Models Affected: PA-11, PA-11S, PA-12, PA-18, PA-18S, PA-18”105”(Special), PA-18S”105”(Special), PA-18A, PA-18”125”(Army L-21A), PA-18S”125”, PA-18AS”125”, PA-18”135”(Army L-21B), PA-18A”135”, PA-18S”135”, PA-18AS”135”, PA-18”150”, PA-18A”150”, PA-18S”150”, PA-18AS”150”, PA-19(Army L-18C), PA-19S, PA-22, PA-22-108, PA-22-135, PA-22S-135, PA-22-150, PA-22S-150, PA-22-160, PA-22S-160. Only those aircraft with fuel tanks manufactured prior to June 2003 are affected. Compliance Time: ImmediatelyPurpose: 1.To prevent tanks from developing potentially dangerous leaks. Instructions: Prior to the next flight and before each flight: Look for signs of fuel leaks by inspecting the bottom of each wing in the area of the fuel tank drains. If there are any signs of fuel leaks (staining or smell of fuel is observed), remove fuel tank lid and investigate further. If a leak exists, remove fuel tanks and return to Dakota Cub Aircraft or a vendor certified by Dakota Cub Aircraft for re-welding. Effective Date: This Service Bulletin is effective October 1st, 2004 Summary: Please contact Dakota Cub Aircraft @ 605-757-6628 to make arrangements for compliance with this Service Bulletin. Discussion: Instances of fuel leaks have been reported primarily in the tanks bottom inboard and outboard welded seams. Tanks subject to rough service (float training, off airport, or bush operations) improper tank installation or shipping damage can result in leaks in these areas. The potential for developing leaks exists only in the first series of tanks manufactured prior to June 2003. Tanks manufactured after that date have been revised to eliminate the leak potential. Dakota Cub Aircraft or a vendor certified by Dakota Cub Aircraft will inspect and re-weld tanks. Cost: There is no charge for the inspection, welding, and certification of these tanks by Dakota Cub Aircraft or their certified vendor. Please call ahead for scheduling considerations. NOTE: If you are no longer in possession of this aircraft, please forward this information to the present owner/operator and notify Dakota Cub Aircraft, Inc. of the address and ownership corrections. Changes may be directed Dakota Cub Aircraft, Inc. PO Box 797, Brandon, SD 57005 and should include the aircraft registration number, aircraft serial number, current name and address of owner/operator.
For More Information Contact: Dakota Cub Aircraft, Inc. |
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