63355-009 – Piper Aircraft Brake Master Cylinder Reservoir
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The Piper Aircraft 63355-009 is a genuine OEM reservoir for the aircraft's hydraulic brake master cylinder assembly. This component serves the critical function of holding a reserve supply of hydraulic fluid (typically MIL-PRF-5606) for the braking system. It provides the necessary fluid volume to compensate for brake pad wear and ensures that the master cylinder remains adequately supplied during operation, preventing air ingestion into the hydraulic lines.
Manufactured from a durable, translucent polymer specifically chosen for its compatibility with aircraft hydraulic fluids, the 63355-009 allows for quick and easy visual inspection of the brake fluid level during pre-flight and maintenance checks. Its integrity is essential for the safe operation of the aircraft's braking system, as a leak or crack can lead to a loss of brake fluid and subsequent brake failure. This genuine Piper part guarantees the correct material, fit, and sealing required for this flight-critical application.
Key Features
Genuine Piper Aircraft OEM Part: Ensures correct fitment, material compatibility with MIL-PRF-5606 fluid, and adherence to Piper's quality standards.
Provides Hydraulic Fluid Reserve: Holds the necessary volume of brake fluid to accommodate system demands and fluid expansion/contraction.
Translucent Polymer Construction: Allows for easy visual inspection of the brake fluid level and condition without opening the system.
Fluid Compatibility: Molded from a specific polymer resistant to degradation, discoloration, or cracking from long-term exposure to aviation hydraulic fluid.
Integral Cap/Seal Interface: Designed for a secure seal with the corresponding filler cap to prevent fluid leakage and contamination ingress.
Technical Specifications
Part Number: 63355-009
Component Type: Brake Master Cylinder Reservoir
OEM Manufacturer: Piper Aircraft, Inc.
Material: Translucent Polymer (Specific type, e.g., Polyethylene, Polypropylene, must be confirmed by OEM documentation or certification), compatible with MIL-PRF-5606 hydraulic fluid.
Fluid Compatibility: MIL-PRF-5606 (Red Hydraulic Oil).
Aircraft Compatibility
The 63355-009 is the specified brake master cylinder reservoir on a wide range of Piper aircraft models. Common applicable families include, but are not limited to:
PA-28 Series: Cherokee, Warrior, Archer, Arrow, Dakota
PA-32 Series: Cherokee Six, Lance, Saratoga
PA-34 Series: Seneca
PA-44 Series: Seminole
Crucial Note: The specific aircraft model and serial number must be checked against the latest revision of the official Piper Aircraft Illustrated Parts Catalog (IPC) to ensure correct part number applicability.
Applications
Stores reserve hydraulic fluid for the pilot and co-pilot brake master cylinders.
Allows for visual monitoring of the brake system fluid level.
Compensates for fluid displacement due to brake pad wear and thermal expansion.
Why Choose 63355-009?
Choosing the genuine Piper 63355-009 is a critical decision for ensuring the integrity and safety of your aircraft's braking system. Aircraft hydraulic systems require components made from certified materials that are proven compatible with the specified fluids. Using a non-certified reservoir made from an incorrect plastic can lead to material crazing, cracking, or softening when exposed to MIL-PRF-5606 fluid, resulting in leaks and potential brake failure. The genuine Piper part guarantees the correct material, a perfect seal with the master cylinder and cap, and the durability required for this flight-critical application.
The 63355-009 reservoir plays a vital role beyond simply holding fluid; it is essential for the thermal compensation and long-term function of the closed hydraulic brake system. As the brake system heats up during use or due to ambient temperature changes, the hydraulic fluid (MIL-PRF-5606) expands significantly, following the principles of thermal expansion. Without the air space provided by the reservoir, this expansion would create immense pressure, potentially leading to component failure or dragging brakes. The reservoir provides a necessary ullage volume (air gap above the fluid) to accommodate this expansion safely. Furthermore, as brake pads wear, the caliper pistons must extend further to apply pressure, permanently displacing a small amount of fluid from the reservoir into the brake lines. The reservoir ensures there is sufficient reserve fluid to accommodate this gradual displacement over the life of the brake pads, preventing air from being drawn into the master cylinder, which would result in a soft or ineffective brake pedal due to the compressibility of air, contrasting with the incompressibility required by Pascal's Principle for hydraulic force transmission.
Note: This is a flight-critical component of the aircraft braking system. It should be inspected regularly for cracks, leaks, discoloration, and security of installation. The fluid level should be maintained within the specified limits indicated on the reservoir or in the maintenance manual. Ensure only the correct type of hydraulic fluid (MIL-PRF-5606) is used. Use of incorrect fluid types will damage seals throughout the system. Installation and servicing must be performed by a certified A&P mechanic.
Documentation
The definitive part number applicability and installation procedures are detailed in the applicable Piper Aircraft Illustrated Parts Catalog (IPC) and Maintenance Manual for the specific aircraft model and serial number.