Pawnee Wing Inspections So Far

[Larry Ruggiero]

Apologies for starting another thread on the wing NPRM, but since most of the comments on the original thread deal with issues/opinions regarding the NPRM, I’m curious about actual inspection progress among us. So how many folks have actually opened up their wings at the service bulletin inspection points and what have you found so far? I’ve seen one set of wings stripped in a shop and understand what the service bulletins have explained as failure items. But I’m leery of tearing into ours until more is known. I’ve seen one quoted price listed from Johnston Aircraft regarding inspection panel kits on the order of $1500, which I find ridiculous for a couple reasons. First, adding that weight in between rib bays is inviting added vibration-induced wear to existing fabric and finish, especially doing it on already covered wings. As an IA who’s done some challenging fabric repair/recover work on our Pawnee, I know it’s not easy doing that type of fabric work on the wing bottom. Second, metal rings with nut plates are overkill. I see nothing wrong with original Piper rectangular inspection panels that Univair sells as PMA parts for about $37 each (plastic grommet and aluminum panel), for a total of $445. They’re a lot cheaper and easier to install than what Laviasa apparently has conjured up. Those panels have nothing to do with structural integrity of the spar insofar as any pending AD is concerned. Many rag-wing Pipers have been flying with those rectangular panels for years. 

So again, I know some folks have charged ahead and I’m curious what you’ve found so far. Of course comments are welcomed. TIA…

Larry Ruggiero, Carolina Soaring Assoc