TFE731 Turbine Disks Might Have To Be Replaced

Of some 3,572 TFE731-2 and -3 engines on U.S.-registered business jets that would have to get their low-pressure turbine stage 1 disks repetitively checked for fatigue cracks, it is estimated that about 1,900 would need to replace the disks, if the FAA adopts a proposed AD. The directive would essentially mandate compliance with a two-year-old Honeywell Service Bulletin that addresses possible fatigue cracking in the disks. The proposed AD is based on three uncontained failures of the disks over the past 16 years. Replacement parts are estimated to cost about $30,000 per engine. Comments on the proposal are due by August 16. For more details, contact the FAA’s Joseph Costa at (562) 627-5246.