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38526-813 – Piper Aircraft OEM Inboard Leading Edge Skin Assembly
Available now on the Airparts.aero Marketplace.
Overview
The Piper 38526-813 is a genuine OEM, flight-critical Inboard Leading Edge Skin Assembly. This is a primary structural component of the wing, engineered to form the precise aerodynamic shape of the wing's leading edge. Its function is to provide a smooth, uninterrupted surface for airflow while also serving as a load-bearing "D-spar" structure that carries significant flight loads.
This is a "service" (SERV) part, indicating it is a complete, factory-new assembly intended for major structural repair or replacement of the inboard section of a wing. Manufactured by Piper Aircraft to the original type certificate specifications, this component is fabricated from high-strength, aerospace-grade aluminum alloy, precision-formed to the exact contour required for the airframe. The integrity of this skin is paramount for maintaining the wing's aerodynamic profile, structural strength, and overall airworthiness.
Key Features
Genuine Piper Aircraft OEM Part: The original, factory-specified component, guaranteeing a perfect fit, form, and function for a primary structural repair.
Flight-Critical Structural Component: Serves as the primary load-bearing skin for the inboard section of the wing's leading edge.
Precision-Formed Assembly: Engineered to the exact aerodynamic contour and dimensions specified in the aircraft's type design, ensuring proper performance and fit.
High-Strength Aluminum Construction: Fabricated from aerospace-grade aluminum alloy for maximum strength, durability, and fatigue resistance.
Service Part: Designated as a complete assembly for the repair and replacement of a damaged or corroded original skin.
Technical Specifications
Part Number: 38526-813
Component Type: Skin, Leading Edge, Inboard, Service Assembly
OEM Manufacturer: Piper Aircraft, Inc.
Material: Aerospace-Grade Aluminum Alloy
Approx. Dimensions: 73" L x 15" W x 9" H
Approx. Weight: 40.85 lbs
Counterpart Part: Likely P/N 38526-812 or 38526-803 (Left Hand)
Aircraft Compatibility
Piper: This part is a heavy-duty structural component consistent with the size and construction of the Piper PA-31 Navajo / Chieftain series of twin-engine aircraft.
Note: This is a flight-critical primary structural component. Applicability can vary significantly by aircraft serial number, model, and modification status. The aircraft's specific Illustrated Parts Catalog (IPC) and Structural Repair Manual (SRM) are the final and absolute authorities for determining part applicability.
Applications
Airframe Structural Repair: The certified component for replacing a damaged, corroded, or bird-struck inboard wing leading edge.
Wing Rebuild/Overhaul: A key component used during the complete rebuild or re-skinning of a wing assembly.
Why Choose 38526-813?
The wing's leading edge is a non-negotiable structural element that defines the aircraft's flight characteristics and carries immense aerodynamic loads. There is no substitute for a genuine OEM part. Using a non-certified, "will-fit," or improperly repaired part introduces an extreme risk of aerodynamic inefficiency (leading to control issues) or catastrophic structural failure in flight. The genuine Piper 38526-813 is the only component guaranteed to be manufactured from the correct, certified alloy and to the precise dimensions required to safely restore the aircraft to its original, airworthy condition.
The engineering function of the 38526-813 leading edge skin is twofold. First, it acts as the primary aerodynamic surface, creating the crucial stagnation point and pressure gradient that generates a large portion of the wing's lift. Its smooth, precise contour is essential for maintaining attached airflow. Second, it serves as the forward web of the wing's "D-spar." In this structural role, it works in torsion with the main spar to provide the wing's stiffness, resisting the powerful twisting moments encountered in flight and ensuring the structural integrity of the entire wing box.
Note: The 38526-813 is a primary structural component. Installation must be performed by a certified A&P/IA mechanic with structural experience, in strict accordance with the Piper Aircraft maintenance and structural repair manuals. This part is not a simple "bolt-on" and will require the precise installation of structural rivets.
Documentation
No public-facing OEM specification sheet was located for this proprietary part number. All authoritative technical data, installation procedures, and inspection criteria are contained within the official Piper Aircraft Maintenance Manual, Structural Repair Manual (SRM), and Illustrated Parts Catalog (IPC) for the applicable aircraft model.
