Summary
This document proposes the adoption of a new airworthiness directive (AD) that is applicable to General Electric Company (GE) CF6- 45/-50 series turbofan engines. This proposal would require an initial and repetitive on-wing visual inspection of the side links of the five- link forward mount assembly for cracks, and replacement of the side links and pylon attachment bolts, and inspection of the fail-safe bolt and platform lug, if the side links are found cracked. This proposal would also require a shop-level refurbishment of the side links as a terminating action to the on-wing inspection program. This proposal is prompted by four reports of cracked side links detected during routine engine shop visits. The actions specified by the proposed AD are intended to prevent a side link fracture, which could result in the failure of the second side link, or the forward engine mount pylon attachment bolts, and possible separation of the engine from the aircraft.