Hello,
AMSAFE provides airbag systems to many aircrafts.
Every year, one has to test the system with a specific test box, depending on the kind of installation. For Cessna aircrafts the test box is PN 508668-201(actually for all aircrafts which have belts equipped with a single inflator).
So, Cessnas should not use the same test box than, for example, Cirruses (4 points belts with dual inflators, the PN test box is 508987‐401) … the latter being by far the most widely available.
However, I have heard from field, that the Cirrus test box, should also work with single inflator belts installations (such as Cessna or Mooney and others)
My question is: who has the experience and would be willing to share ?
Attached are the list of AMSAFE requirements, and a photo of the Cirrus test box.
Thanks for your help
Kind regards
Alexandre
I wonder what is inside?
Presumably a continuity tester for the detonator(s)? AIUI, airbags are pyrotechnic and are activated by a mechanical G sensor. They do need electric power though.
A 9V battery 
AMSAFE sells that for around 2k$
And you need to have it calibrated every year
The box does not only test the detonator / inflator, it also checks the EMA (acceleration sensor) and continuity of the system (the system is activated when the buckles are locked)
Below, the test procedure, with the “Cessna” test box:
Having had one of the airbags go off accidentally while work was being done on the aircraft, I would not try to tinker with it without knowing exactly what I’m doing.
The poor engineer who was inside spent a couple of days in hospital from the shock. Apparently the noise was unbelievable. All the staff at the maintenance facility thought it was an explosion.
What I understand is that you must be extremely careful when moving EMA (acceleration sensor), to be sure they have been disconnected.
Do you know what happened with your installation ??
