How would you handle this?

[Guest user wanting help]

A seat frame was sent out for complete overhaul, now like new. A yellow tagged salvage seat was purchased, send to same overhaul shop, now like new. 8130's issued by repair shop
The plane owner installed new FAA legal seat covers-think this is owner allowed. Not yet documented in the records.
The remade seats and covers were installed in the plane.
Somehow, owner was under the impression that an IA has to sign off on overhaul seat frame install.
This was requested of an IA during performed work, but not done.
Plane owner thinks this would never be discovered in error but has an interest in documenting care of plane to any future buyers.

How should this be handled? Is an IA required for install of new seat frames?

 

[Half Fast]

Is an IA required for install of new seat frames?

I can't imagine why. From your description, it sounds like this isn't even an alteration, just a simple repair, which any A&P could sign.

 

[Bell206]

The plane owner installed new FAA legal seat covers-think this is owner allowed. Not yet documented in the records.

It is allowed under Part 43 Appx A(c)(11) & (15). Not documenting the work makes it illegal.

Somehow, owner was under the impression that an IA has to sign off on overhaul seat frame install.

No. The 8130-3 from the repair station documents the seat overhaul. The owner can install the overhauled seats provided the install meets the definition/limits of preventative maintenance under Part 1 and Part 43 which most do. The only time an IA sign-off is required would be if a major alteration/repair was performed and is documented on a Form 337.

Plane owner thinks this would never be discovered in error but has an interest in documenting care of plane to any future buyers.

How should this be handled? Is an IA required for install of new seat frames?

Have the owner document the seat and cover install as preventative maintenance. Adding a reference to the shop work and 8130-3 would maintain a trace for any future owner.

However, if the overhauled seat and new covers changed the weight of the seat assembly by more than 1 pound then he would need an A&P to correct the aircraft certified empty weight to reflect that weight change.