"smjmitchell" wrote in message . au...
Anyone can reverse engineer the 'part' and apply for PMA for it. The
feds will accept it if the process is good...

There are a number of ways to get a PMA - don't be any means think that this
is a straight forward process.

Outstanding information thanks! I read 21.303, and by the look of it
there are a few things that still would probably end up being
contested IMHO. Not anything insurmountable though.

For example f(4):
#######################

That the fabrication processes, construction, and assembly conform to
those specified in the design.

########################

I am guessing this means that the TC can include manufacturing
techniques, and that your supposed to be in compliance with those
techniques. Obviously that's not possible without the OEM data. I
can't emagine contesting this would be difficult provided you could
demonstrate equivilant or superior quality control.

As far as the sub-parts on design and material specification, that
would all be dependent on the competency of the persons doing your
reverse engineering. If the FAA dinged you on it, you would just go
back to the crated OEM engines in the lab and confirm or deny the
FAA's position. Then you just have to fix it and demonstrate
conclusively that there was no difference.

I expect you'd probably still end up in court, but only once or twice.
Still cheaper that designing and flight testing a whole new engine.

Much obliged.

BTW, are you with the FAA?

-Thanks
-Matt