NTSB Advisory on F&M Oil Filter Adapters

[1001001]

According to NTSB, improper installation and maintenance of F&M oil filter adapters on Continental engines caused at least 11 loss of power related accidents due to oil starvation resulting in multiple fatalities and serious injuries.  The NTSB specifically mentions Continental engines installed on Mooney M20K aircraft.  NTSB is recommending FAA issue an AD related to this issue.

 

https://www.ntsb.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/NR20201203.aspx

https://www.ntsb.gov/investigations/AccidentReports/Reports/ASR2005.pdf

https://www.ntsb.gov/investigations/AccidentReports/Reports/SPC2003.pdf

[tmo]

On a TSIO-360 why would one use such an adapter?

[kortopates]

This should only apply to the Rockets with the TSIO-520. They do list TSIO-360's but I am skeptical about the even the early 231 -GB not having an integral oil filter either.

Furthermore, I wouldn't go so far to say it was an improper installation as much as a poor design. These adapters have always been troublesome and there has been a long standing AD against a version that came from Cessna, but not against the aftermarket STC’d ones like this F&M adapter that is of substantially identical design. 

Continental did come out with a newer style oil pump with integral oil filter in the later TSIO-520's (e.g. -R7B) which would be a preferred fix but Continental has said there just aren't enough of the older engines out there to justify the certification cost to get the newer style pump approved on them. 

Edited December 4, 2020 by kortopates

[GeeBee]

Every time I have tried "integral" filter adapters I have always found them wanting. I always end up taking them off and installing an Airwolf. For my money if you want to add a filter, Airwolf is the bomb. You have the added advantage of putting the filter anywhere you want for easy removal.

 

 

 

 

[kortopates]

Savvy news letter today addressing this topic:

https://mailchi.mp/savvyaviation.com/oil-filter-adapters-on-continental-engines?e=710336d60c 

[GeeBee]

Yep, Airwolf adapter. 

 

[carusoam]

Thanks for the Savvy page, Paul!

Easy to understand, comes complete with pics... and technical back ground why and how it can come loose...

Best regards,

-a-