Is modifying a PW4000 T/R from a 767 to a 747 possible?

[KirbyWan]

Howdy all,

I've been asked to find out if we can and if so what needs to be done to modify a PW4000 T/R (thrust reverser) that was removed from a 767 so that it can be used on a 747. I know there are some versions of this T/R that can be used on either so I figure it must be possible, but for the T/Rs that only have one application listed I'm not sure how to go about this or what changes need to be made. Does anyone have experience doing this? I've looked through all the Boeing service letters and haven't gotten much in the way of useful direction.

Thanks,

-Kirby

Kirby Wilkerson

Remember, first define the problem, then solve it.

 

[rb1957]

i'd talk to GE, PW, or RR ... T/Rs don't sound like "plug and play"

 

[KirbyWan]

I kind of expect that is neccessary. All the drawings I have are Boeing drawings. I'm not sure if I should be working with Boeing, Pratt and Whitney or maybe even a company like Rohr, or Middle River.

-Kirby

Kirby Wilkerson

Remember, first define the problem, then solve it.

 

[rb1957]

sure talking to the 2nd tier guys (who actually designed it) might be more productive. i imagine the OEMs will be more worried about implied liability. that said, how would you actually get the substitution onto a plane ? STC? substantiating that sounds like a problem ??

 

[thruthefence]

Did you find one on Ebay or craig's list?

 

[KirbyWan]

We parted out a 767. And it looks like the T/Rs are Boeing parts. So I need to contact Boeing. Now just to figure out who.

-Kirby

Kirby Wilkerson

Remember, first define the problem, then solve it.

 

[SWComposites]

I suspect that if it is a "Boeing" part, then it was designed/fabricated at Boeing Wichita, which is now Spirit Aerosystems. Suggest you contact Spirit.

 

[cd27idw]

You need to find out who certified tha nacelle (T/R will certified with it). It'll need to be certified for the new application.

Also, I'm not convinced Spirit do thrust reversers; most likely Goodrich or Aircelle (formerly Hurel Hispano).

Regards,

Ian W

 

[Benbarca7]

T/R are rotable parts.
What is the engine? I suppose that if it is an GE 80C2.
Middle River is doing the T/R.
If it is a PW 94" I suppose it would be Goodrich.
You should ask to boeing or the T/R manufacturer to know the interchangeability. As cd27idw said, the manufacturer or boeing should tell you if the 767 reverser version is certified for a 747 in terms of load to be sustained.

Hope this helps,

Ben


Ben
Nacelle Stress Engineer (repair on Civil Aircraft)