Aircraft is at Muncie Aviation in Muncie Ind with a failed IFR systems test due to what I'm told is two leaks...expensive leaks! (This plane is equipped with the automatic landing gear extension safety system)
1) Damaged or corroded pitot tube (PN 50-384040-1); a tiny leak right through the side.
Question 1....can that be repaired with weld or solder?
2) It is believed one of the pressure switches associated with the gear safety system located in the fuselage side-wall panel is leaking internally (PN 35-380092-11).
Question 2...is there a reasonable way to simply disable, remove, bypass, etc etc the safety system? We have never used it and do not intend to ever turn it on. Muncie believed they could do that since it is a factory option, but the deeper they get into the wiring diagram they believe other switches and warnings would need to be installed in order to eliminate the system completely - at a fairly high cost. But they can't just placard it 'In-Op' on account of the leak in the 'plumbing' so to speak. So we wanted to pick your brains before looking for the replacement pressure switch from salvage. We're thinking that part alone is gonna be high $$$ too.
Many thanks.
Failed IFR Statis System Test...Leaks
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Model: Debonair 35-C33A
Aircraft Serial Number: CE-93
Posted 9/30/2022 - 11 months ago
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To question 2:
Removal of the system is labor and parts intensive. Repair is likely just as much - maybe more - so. The system has a switch that is off-on-test. In the off mode it is inop. The system can be permanently inop'ed by removing and isolating the wires. Then the pitot and static lines can be removed / capped at the tee's in the wing root (if I recall correctly, they are accessible through the pilot lower side vent) Be sure the switch is placarded inop.
Mike
ABS Tech Advisor
Posted 9/30/2022 - 11 months ago
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Posted 10/1/2022 - 11 months ago
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I don't know of an approved repair for the pitot tube. I'd confirm the heater element works before proceeding on anything there, as it looks like that tube has lead an experienced life.
Posted 10/1/2022 - 11 months ago
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