Airworthiness Directives; Cessna Aircraft Company Models 172R, 172S, 182T, T182T, 206H, and T206H Airplanes

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) to supersede AD 2006-17-04, which applies to certain Cessna Aircraft Company (Cessna) Models 172R, 172S, 182T, T182T, 206H, and T206H airplanes. AD 2006-17-04 currently requires you to inspect the two end fittings on each of the flexible fuel hoses located in the engine compartment for the correct torque values, and, if any incorrect torque values are found during the inspection, tighten the hose end fittings to the correct torque values. This AD results from four reports of loose fuel lines connected to the fuel servo or fuel flow transducer. Two reports were of in-flight engine failure on a Model T182T airplane. A third report was of in-flight engine failure on a Model 206H airplane. A fourth report was of a Model 172S airplane losing engine power on final approach. Consequently, this AD would require you to establish the correct torque values of the end fittings on fuel hoses for certain Cessna Models 172R, 172S, 182T, T182T, 206H, and T206H airplanes. This AD clarifies that the torque values need to be physically established and visual inspection only is not sufficient. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct potential loss of fuel flow, which may result in partial or complete loss of engine power and/or uncontrolled engine compartment fire due to fuel leakage forward of the firewall.