Teleflex hose - realistic lifespan?

[cgzro]

Have a wack load of Teleflex (Teflon with stainless wire braid and fire sleeve exterior) hoses in my aircraft, especially in the inverted oil system and the fuel lines. Its all now about 10 years old.

So what is the realistic life of this stuff? All I can find is a reference to 'no shelf life' and 'better than 15 years in service' on the Teleflex web site but its not clear what the 'actual' FMA/PMA etc. rules are concerning its life. Anybody have a reference?

Thanks,

Peter

[iflyforpie]

In many aircraft that don't otherwise specify, these are 'on-condition' items that are technically serviceable as long as they don't leak or are otherwise undamaged, and as long as the signing AME and the pilot are comfortable flying them.

Some aircraft manufacturers put life limits (calendar time) on these, and ten years is typical.

If you have any doubts, I would replace them.

[cgzro]

Well problem is they look pristine. They most certainly are not leaking anywhere or they'd be long gone

Peter

[brownbear]

the hoses go a really long time. I've seen many used hard for 15 years and still good. They are so protected under the fire sleeve that they don't fatigue like automotive rad hoses or such. Different game.

Private use and with no leaks keep going. Honestly they don't leak. Not unless the fitting gets corroded.

You can see some regular things to check with them in the Ole AC 43.13 manual. Soft spots, bulges etc for inspection items.

A metal braided hose under a sleeve is a good part designed to last a life time.

You can replace them. But the reason would be for a warm fuzzy feeling.

[Widgeon Guy]

Just remember to inspect them thoroughly, I have seen hoses go that looked great except in the one spot that let go. And hoses in the fire sleeve need to be pulled out and inspected also, I had a hydraulic line in a wheel well with the sleeve on it go. The fire sleeve was holding moister from every time the well was washed out and the metal braiding corroded and a six year old hose blew out. Not a fun day on that ramp.