Thread: Fireweall Blanket

Are there many firewall blankets that still need to be done. I know there are still some that need it. Last I heard and it was only a rumor there were still 40-45 that still need a firewall blanket install. I'm up for doing a few if your ready?

Roger,

Is this due to a service bulletin or just a recommendation?

Had my blanket installed at my annual this summer. Bob did a wonderful job (very clean). My understanding is FD will stop paying the $1000.00 (or whatever it is) towards the job, and make an actual SB for the blanket. If thats the case those of you that have not got it done had better be on it. It did make a difference on cockpit noise. Glad I did it.

FYI,

This is not new news, just a re-posting.

Just did a little checking. The firewall blanket SB has not come out yet and FD would like people to volunteer to get it done. They will at some time that hasn't been determined require it to be done. I was wrong on the number that still need it about 100-110. It is not a big rush or burden on the FD facilities right now to get it done so scheduling is easy, but once the bulletin does come out you will be under a time line and because there is a number to do you may have scheduling issues trying to get in. The more done now means a lot less rush on your part trying to get it done when everyone else is trying to get it done at the same time. It takes roughly 3 days. FD pays for the first $1000 and you pay $450. Have someone do it that has done at least one and certified by FD.

There is an SB coming out soon for the tail reinforcement which affects about 60-65 planes. It will be by serial number and no one has any info on it yet. It has not been finalized from Germany yet so calling FD USA at this time won't do you any good. Just sit back and wait until it comes out. I don't have any more details yet either.

What you mean for firewall blanket? What work had to be done on firewall? In Europe we haven't heard anything!!
many thanks for some pics!

ciao

It may not be required in Europe or some where else.

I going to vent just a little after working on a CT today with a firewall blanket.
I'd like to hit the person in the head with a 20 lb. wrench that put this on and the one who put the last one on another CT. I believe they were done in California. Those people aren't around any longer.

My arms and hands are all cut up form the dummy who didn't bother to tape the edges. So the sharp stainless steel edges just slice you up when you want to do any work. (good thing that mechanic wasn't standing next to me today). Plus the edges just start to fray and bend.
Then they didn't bother to tape the seams on the back of the firewall where the two halves over lap on either plane.


When you go to get your firewall done ask these questions, no better yet, tell them you want the edges metal taped. I over lap the metal tape over the edge where the cowling sits to not only dress it up, but it stays in place and the tape doesn't come undone and it keeps the cowling from any chafing when you secure it in place. You want the rear seam taped, you want the two fuel lines just under the air box to be re-routed just under the metal bar that they cross over now so you can at least get your air filter out without a wrestling match. Get your rubber engine isolators replaced at the same time while the engine is off.

I know Rex Johnson in Tulsa, OK does a great job and he trained me. Yes, I am still trainable believe it or not, he only had to whack me a dozen times or so. (: Nice guy.

Ok I'm done venting!
Boy I do feel a little better. I just wish I had that wrench and the mechanic to make my day. (:

Thank you roger, what type of cover is that film? It's self adhesive?

ciao

It has a fibrous type backing and the metal foil is actually stainless steel. It comes with a tube of adhesive, but it doesn't work that well. The fiber just lets it pull away. This doesn't really matter because of all the hardware on our firewall holds the blanket in place and it won't ever move or come off. Just the edges and rear seam need securing. The metal tape works the best for several reasons as I mentioned in the last post. The thick metal tape doesn't stick for a darn, but the more pliable thinner metal tape does a great job. Make sure you wipe down the areas you are going to tape with some lacquer thinner or something to so the tape sticks well. Don't let anyone leave the edges just bare.

Originally Posted by Roger Lee

It has a fibrous type backing and the metal foil is actually stainless steel. It comes with a tube of adhesive, but it doesn't work that well. The fiber just lets it pull away. This doesn't really matter because of all the hardware on our firewall holds the blanket in place and it won't ever move or come off. Just the edges and rear seam need securing. The metal tape works the best for several reasons as I mentioned in the last post. The thick metal tape doesn't stick for a darn, but the more pliable thinner metal tape does a great job. Make sure you wipe down the areas you are going to tape with some lacquer thinner or something to so the tape sticks well. Don't let anyone leave the edges just bare.

I had a similar problem with my firewall blanket. Wayne Flemington consulted with Dana at Flight Design USA and corrected the problem promptly. Here is the tape recommended by Dana at FD USA:

"For sealing the firewall blanket, this is the tape we use, but any brand name HVAC foil tape 2-3mils is acceptable."