NO Wing inspection Holes

[cweyant]

Just purchased a C140. The wing was already metallized and has NO inspection holes of any kind. I'm pretty sure this is incorrect. Where do I go for info on number and placement of inspection access holes? I'm assuming an AI and/or AP mechanic will have to be involved In the installation of said holes?

Does anyone have two window latches they'd be willing to part with? My windows latches are missing and the windows have been rendered inoperable by installing a tab and two screws. Is there an after market latch available?

[6898]

I'm thinking the reason for no inspection holes are no need to check wing wires? and if you really need window parts Univair but be ready on the cost.

[6643]

Check the STC for the metalization. If the drag wires were removed then the inspection is not required. Still, it can't hurt to take a look inside every once in a while.

If you remove the cover where the aft lift strut attaches to the wing you should be able to see if the drag wires are still there, at least for those bays. If they are there then the AD applies and you need to inspect them.

An A&P will have to sign off on the holes if you decide to add them. Make sure you don't cut into a rib or spar!

[cweyant]

Thanks John. I'm headed to the airport now to take a look.

[cweyant]

Drag wires are present.

[cweyant]

Spent yesterday going through all the aircrsft records. I found no record or log entry for wing metallization. Now what?

[4004]

Do you have all the records from day one? Looks like you're new to the group - are you aware that you (or any one) can order the records for any aircraft on a disc from FAA OK,City for only $10? May solve your problem - log on FAA.gov, you'll find info there - can do online with credit card - can take as little as 7-10 days- in recent time I've had excellent service.
Still no records, get help researching the metallizing STCs. IIRC and as Prof John C alluded to, one STC left the drag wires in and others took them out - that will help identifying your STC.

[6643]

I found no record or log entry for wing metallization.

Don't suppose there was an entry for replacing the wings, was there? You definitely want to order the records CD for your plane. It's a good thing to have even if you don't currently have any issues. One thing to do is look for wing recovering entries, then see if you can figure out if one is missing. Or. the last recover may be written in such a way as to disguise metalization.

[V529]

There were numerous STC's for metalizing wings. I can't be certain, but I don't recall a single one that had round wing inspection holes such as you find on fabric wings. You're probably "ok" as is, but before you get carried away and start cutting holes in the bottom of the wings exhaust all avenues of checking for your wing records. Throughout the Association we have most of the STC's, (just not all in one spot)

[cweyant]

Okay guys, thanks for all the good advice. Next step will be to contact FAA for info. I can't imagine a STC that doesn't require inspection access for cables, pulleys, corrosion, or cracks. How can that be?