Section 8
Handling, Servicing, and Maintenance
Columbia 400 (LC41-550FG)
RC050002
Initial Issue of Manual: November 10, 2004
8-10
Latest Revision Level/Date: -/11-10-2004
MAINTENANCE AND DOCUMENTATION
MAINTENANCE
Airplane Inspection Periods
– Part 91, Subpart E of the Federal Aviation Regulations requires
that each U.S. civil registered airplane not used for hire be inspected every 12 calendar months in
accordance with Part 43. If the airplane is used for hire, the regulations require that it must be
inspected before or at each 100 hours of time in service.
Airworthiness Directives –
The FAA may issue notifications known as Airworthiness
Directives (ADs) that are applicable to the airplane or one of its components. The directives
specify what action is required and normally have a compliance period. It is the responsibility of
the owner/operator of the airplane to ensure compliance with all applicable ADs.
Preventive Maintenance
– A certificated pilot who owns or operates an airplane not used as an
air carrier is authorized by FAR Part 43 to perform limited preventive maintenance on his or her
airplane. Appendix A of Part 43 of the Federal Aviation Regulations is specific as to what items
constitute preventive maintenance. Only the certificated pilot who owns or operates the airplane
can perform the specific items listed in FAR Part 43. The work must be performed according to
procedures and specifications in the applicable handbook or maintenance manual. Appropriately
licensed personnel must perform all other maintenance items not specifically identified in
Appendix A of Part 43. For more details regarding authorized maintenance, contact the factory
or a service center.
Alterations or Repairs
– All alterations or repairs to the airplane must be accomplished by
licensed personnel. In addition, an alteration may violate the airworthiness of the airplane.
Before alterations are made, the owner or operator of the airplane should contact the FAA for
approval.
Required Oil Changes and Special Inspections
– During the engine break-in period, Non-
dispersant mineral oil conforming to SAE J1966 shall be used. However, if the engine is flown
less than once a week, a straight mineral oil with corrosion preventative MIL-C-6529 for the first
25 hours is recommended. After the first 25 hours of the airplane’s time in service, the oil and oil
filter must be changed and a new supply of Teledyne Continental Motors specification MHS-24
(latest revision) ashless dispersant oil must be used. At 50 hours of time in service, the oil and oil
filter shall be changed and the filter and discarded oil checked for evidence of metal particles.
Thereafter, the oil and oil filter must be changed at every 50 hours of time in service.
At the first oil change, the engine and related accessories including the magnetos, starter,
alternator, engine driven fuel and oil pumps, oil cooler, and propeller governor, should be
inspected for oil leaks and security. Spark plug leads and other electrical circuits should be
checked for proper routing, abrasion, chafing, and security. Check engine controls and linkages
for proper operation. Finally, check the intake and exhaust system for security and evidence of
cracking.
Recommended Oil Changes and Special Inspections
– At approximately every 50 hours of
time in service it is recommended the engine oil be changed. Since the cowling is removed for an
oil change, a cursory inspection of other engine systems is possible, and the engine can be
cleaned and degreased if necessary. The airplane’s engine is the single most expensive