Pa 28-160 compass leak

[eddyb123]

I've noticed my compass leaking and the last time 1/2 an inch of fluid was gone and the compass is wonkie.
can I fill it or is it a job for my mechanic. Thanks.

[cgzro]

While it may seem simple its easy to screw up, for example if you use the wrong type of screwdriver you can end up magnetizing something and then good luck calibrating it. Also its not listed as elementary maintenance so best to leave it to your mechanic.

My advice also to buy a new one, they are cheap.

[robertw]

This type of work is not on the list of elementary tasks that do not need a maintenance release (CAR 625 App. A). You'll need an AME to do the work and sign it out.

[eddyb123]

Thanks that's the info I'm looking for.

[the_swede]

My advice also to buy a new one, they are cheap.

The compass may be cheap, However, the compass sing (calibration) may not be so easy.

Swede

[GyvAir]

If it’s an Airpath, the repair kit is available for $25 at Aircraft Spruce. Individual parts for less. Replacement compass body can be had for $130.
I’m sure a whole new thread could be generated for the debate over whether a swing would really be required after installing a repair kit and how much that swing should cost!

[Heliian]

Your compass is currently unserviceable and needs to be repaired or replaced by an appropriately rated ame. Simple.

Fun fact: compass fluid used to be boozy and great for starting fires/drinking after a crash.

[Independence]

Compass? Do people still use those things? I think the last time I used one in anger was in the 90s. With people hanging their handheld GPS's, Spots, inReach's GoPro's, cellphones in the vicinity of the compass the batteries make them even more useless.

[NeverBlue]

Compass swing required after repair???
Nahhhhh...

OH boy...

[J31]

I've noticed my compass leaking and the last time 1/2 an inch of fluid was gone and the compass is wonkie.
can I fill it or is it a job for my mechanic. Thanks.

As noted some compass you can repair. Usually the black diaphragm or the face plate seal starts to leak. Topping up the fluid will not correct the problem.

http://www.aircraftspruce.ca/catalog/in ... ckkey=7695

As noted after the repair it will need a calibration compass swing and the work needs to be signed out by a AME if it is a "certified" aircraft.

With the proper repair kit it it should take about an hour to complete the task and have you on the way.

Much cheaper than a new compass!

[Troubleshot]

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[NeverBlue]

Again...reading comprehension.

but humour us...why would it need a swing? I mean, nobody ever uses it.

By the way, the fish are really biting these days...

[BeaverFixer]

I have even had some heated discussions with Transport Canada Airworthness Inspectors if an AME could even install a compass kit and fill it. They argued it was "specialized maintenance" and had to be done by an appropriatly rated AMO (instument o/h shop)
Can't quite remember who won the argument, but I am still changing gaskets and filling compass's and I never did get an instument shop AMO.

[Troubleshot]

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[NeverBlue]

 but I am still changing gaskets and filling compass's and I never did get an instument shop AMO. 

Well you shouldn't be...there's no argument. It is definitely specialized maintenance.
Even an avionics AMO can't do it unless thay have an instrument rating.

[robertw]

Well you shouldn't be...there's no argument. It is definitely specialized maintenance.
Even an avionics AMO can't do it unless thay have an instrument rating.

How do you figure it's specialized? I just had a look at CAR 571 Schedule II in the Avionics, Instrument and Component categories and I don't see where it falls into the realm of specialized maintenance.

[GyvAir]

NB and I will likely agree on this one.
It will come down to this:

Instrument

5. Maintenance of instruments, other than display devices whose operation is integrated with an appliance to which another category of specialized maintenance applies, if the work is beyond the limits recommended in the manufacturer’s maintenance manual or service instructions for service in the field, is instrument specialized maintenance.

If you can get your hands on the manual for the specific compass in question, it could allow for basic gasket changes to be performed at the field level. From what I recall though, although the Airpath repair kits are sold pretty much over the counter and have been (and I'm sure still are) changed in the field all the time, it is legally outside the scope of non-rated shops.

[torquey401]

Would the attached be helpful?

[GyvAir]

Thanks for posting that, torquey401.
I see they don't have a word in there about just replacing the gasket or diaphragm.. overhaul instructions only. Based on that, there sure are a crap ton of illegally maintained compasses flying about the continent!

[crazyaviator]

AME s and AMo s have been repairing compasses since the wright brothers,,,, A wise TC inspector would be foolish to make an issue of this IF the AME has the information and tools available to repair said compass!

[iflyforpie]

Well you shouldn't be...there's no argument. It is definitely specialized maintenance.
Even an avionics AMO can't do it unless thay have an instrument rating.

BWAAAAHAHAHHAHAHAAAAA!!!!!

CAR 571.04 Schedule II. 5. Maintenance of instruments, other than display devices whose operation is integrated with an appliance to which another category of specialized maintenance applies, if the work is beyond the limits recommended in the manufacturer’s maintenance manual or service instructions for service in the field, is instrument specialized maintenance.

That sounds like a very convincing argument to me...

[SuperchargedRS]

Meh, F that, just go buy a vertical card compass and call it a day.