AD 2003-03-20 Airworthiness Directives; Hartzell Propeller Inc., Model HC-C2YR-4CF Propellers

Makes named: lycoming, hartzell. Read the applicability below — it usually turns on serial or part numbers too.

This airworthiness directive (AD) is applicable to Hartzell Propeller Inc. model HC-C2YR-4CF propellers with propeller hubs part number (P/N) D-6522-1 or D-2201-16 and propeller blades P/N FC8477A-4, installed on Sky International Inc. (Pitts) S-2S and S-2B airplanes with Textron Lycoming model AEIO-540-D4A5 engines. Note 1: This AD applies to each propeller identified in the preceding applicability provision, regardless of whether it has been modified, altered, or repaired in the area subject to the requirements of this AD. For propellers that have been modified, altered, or repaired so that the performance of the requirements of this AD is affected, the owner/operator must request approval for an alternative method of compliance in accordance with paragraph (d) of this AD. The request should include an assessment of the effect of the modification, alteration, or repair on the unsafe condition addressed by this AD; and, if the unsafe condition has not been eliminated, the request should include specific proposed actions to address it.

Compliance with this AD is required as indicated, unless already done. To prevent fatigue failure of Hartzell propeller hubs P/N D-6522-1 or D-2201-16 and blades P/N FC8477A-4 which may result in loss of airplane control, do the following: (a) Remove from service Hartzell propeller hubs P/N D-6522-1 or D-2201-16 and blades P/N FC8477A-4 before exceeding 2,000 flight hours and replace with serviceable hubs and blades. (b) After the effective date of this AD, do not install any Hartzell propeller hubs P/N D-6522-1 or D-2201-16 and blades P/N FC8477A-4 that have accumulated 2,000 hours. (c) A propeller hub or blade from an airplane that is identified in the applicability section of this AD may not be removed and reused on an airplane for which this AD is not applicable. Alternative Methods of Compliance (d) An alternative method of compliance or adjustment of the compliance time that provides an acceptable level of safety may be used if approved by the Manager, Chicago Aircraft Certification Office (ACO). Operators must submit their request through an appropriate FAA Principal Maintenance Inspector, who may add comments and then send it to the Manager, Chicago ACO. Note 2: Information concerning the existence of approved alternative methods of compliance with this airworthiness directive, if any, may be obtained from the Chicago ACO. Special Flight Permits (e) Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with §§ 21.197 and 21.199 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199) to operate the airplane to a location where the requirements of this AD can be done. Effective Date (f) This amendment becomes effective on March 11, 2003. Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on January 28, 2003. Jay J. Pardee, Manager, Engine and Propeller Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 03-2464 Filed 2-3-03; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P