AL 2002-06
7 October 2002
Rudder Pedal Cracking
Transport Canada has received a report of cracking of the L/H and R/H rudder pedals on a Beech 300 aircraft at the attach points. Both hinge points of the pilot's rudder pedal failed, resulting in a loss of braking action. Further inspection revealed that the co-pilot's rudder pedals were cracked through 80% of the material thickness in the same location. The aircraft had a total time of 3318 hours and 3011 cycles.
The SDR database contains several other similar reports.
Transport Canada recommends that owners and operators of this model of aircraft incorporate into their maintenance program, a close visual inspection of this area to ensure the structural integrity of the pilot and co-pilot rudder pedals.
Any defects or further occurrences of this nature are to be reported to Transport Canada, Continuing Airworthiness, Ottawa via the Service Difficulty Reporting program.
For further information contact a Transport Canada Center, or call Mr. Paul Jones, Continuing Airworthiness, Ottawa, telephone (613) 952-4431, facsimile (613) 996-9178 or e-mail jonesp@tc.gc.ca.
For Director, National Aircraft Certification
B. Goyaniuk
Chief, Continuing Airworthiness