AoC number
264
Primary domain
MRO
Secondary domain
PERS
Description
Depending on the level of the customized maintenance program selected, the investment in the required Ground Support Equipment
(GSE) and tools can become significant.
Cheap GSE/tools may be offered from local suppliers, “round the corner”, as substitutes for approved or proprietary tools. These may be copied and manufactured by non- approved suppliers, and may therefore not conform to OEM technical specifications.
There have been instances where tools have been made from incomplete, or out-of-date drawings, incorrect material, and/or according to wrong protection processes. As a consequence, it is likely that these tools will not be of the appropriate quality, and not perform their intended function in a safe and satisfactory manner.
Potential hazard
- Tools made from incomplete, or out-of-date drawings, incorrect material, and/or according to wrong protection processes.
- OEM and Supplier/Vendor tools manufactured and distributed by non-licensed companies based on non–controlled drawings
- Copies of Vendor proprietary tools bearing the same part number, but copied from the original by unauthorized companies.
- Alternate” tool design sold as so-called “equivalents”. These tools have a part number different than the one given in the manufacturer’s documentation.
- Reported problems in the use of the engine tools (the bootstrap), are not related to any one particular aircraft type. The majority of these incidents are the consequence of one, or a combination of the following reasons:
- Use of tools not listed in the AMM, and not approved by OEM.
- Not using appropriately maintained tools.
- Excessive pre-load applied to the tool, which can damage the tool.
Last update
2017-08-28
Corroborating sources and comments
Safety First: The Airbus Safety Magazine, January 2012 edition