Piper PA-23 Apache manuals

This document is Service Bulletin No. 1299 issued by Piper Aircraft, Inc., which addresses the periodic replacement of the main landing gear drag link bolt for specific models of the Piper PA-23 Apache and the PA-23 Aztec. Compliance with this bulletin is considered mandatory, particularly for aircraft that have accumulated 1,000 or more hours of time in service. The bulletin outlines the potential wear on the drag link bolt that may not be detectable during routine inspections, emphasizing the importance of replacing the bolt to prevent fatigue failure and possible main gear collapse. The document provides detailed instructions for the replacement procedure, material requirements, and compliance timelines, ensuring that aircraft owners and maintenance personnel are informed of the necessary actions to maintain safety and airworthiness.

• Compliance is mandatory for PA-23 Apache and Aztec models with 1,000 or more hours TIS on the drag link bolt.
• The drag link bolt must be replaced at the next scheduled maintenance, not exceeding 100 hours TIS.
• Inspect for wear and replace associated hardware as necessary during the procedure.
• Specific part numbers for bolts, cotter pins, washers, and nuts are provided for compliance.
• The bulletin emphasizes the risk of main gear collapse due to undetected wear on the drag link bolt.