I've posted this on the other forum as well. Last March and April, I replaced the engine on the airplane. I decided to replace everything else, including the throttle cable and it's rod end, as well. I purchased the new rod end at Sun n Fun. Just the other day, while chasing a small oil leak, I noticed the new rod end was very loose and was very close to failure. That would've caused at least an off airport landing and could've ultimately destroyed the aircraft. I contacted Matt who informed me that Piper issued a service bulletin that recommends the rod end have a small metal clip installed to help retain the ball in the socket. To me, that's a Band-Aid approach to solving the problem. It has been recommended that the factory style rod end be replaced with a Heim joint style rod end, secured with bolt, washers, and cotter pin. I've decided to pursue this approach to remove any doubt in my mind that the linkage is unsafe.

I've attached pictures of the failed rod end and my original rod end which has the recommended clip.

Please check yours. Make sure it has, at least, the recommended clip.

Rick Mascari
N64400

This type of connection is definitely safer.

Please check yours.

Rick Mascari

N64400