AD 2004-09-16 Airworthiness Directives; Dornier Model 328-100 and -300 Series Airplanes

Models named: 328-100, -300 series. Read the applicability below — it usually turns on serial or part numbers too.

All Model 328-100 and -300 series airplanes, certificated in any category.

Required as indicated, unless accomplished previously. To prevent failure of the rudder flight control system due to cracking of the bearing lugs of the rudder spring tab lever assembly, which could result in loss of rudder control and consequent reduced controllability of the airplane, accomplish the following: Repetitive Inspections (a) Within 400 flight hours or 2 months after the effective date of this AD, whichever is first: Do detailed and eddy current inspections for cracking of the bearing lugs of the rudder spring tab lever assembly by doing all the actions per Paragraphs 2.A., 2.B., and 2.D. of the Accomplishment Instructions of Dornier Alert Service Bulletin ASB-328-27-036 (for Model 328-100 series airplanes); or ASB-328J-27-013 (for Model 328-300 series airplanes); both dated February 12, 2003; as applicable. If no cracking is found, repeat the inspections thereafter at intervals not to exceed 24 months. Note 1: For the purposes of this AD, a detailed inspection is defined as: “An intensive visual examination of a specific structural area, system, installation, or assembly to detect damage, failure, or irregularity. Available lighting is normally supplemented with a direct source of good lighting at intensity deemed appropriate by the inspector. Inspection aids such as mirror, magnifying lenses, etc., may be used. Surface cleaning and elaborate access procedures may be required.” Corrective Action/Repetitive Inspections (b) If any cracking is found during any inspection required by paragraph (a) of this AD: Before further flight, replace the spring tab lever assembly with a new assembly by doing all the actions per Paragraph 2.C. of the Accomplishment Instructions of Dornier Alert Service Bulletin ASB-328-27-036; or ASB-328J-27-013, both dated February 12, 2003; as applicable. Repeat the inspections required by paragraph (a) of this AD thereafter at intervals not to exceed 24 months. (c) Dornier Alert Service Bulletins ASB-328-27-036 and ASB-328J-27-013, both dated February 12, 2003, recommend reporting crack findings and returning damaged lever assemblies to the manufacturer, but this AD does not contain such requirements. Note 2: There is no terminating action available at this time for the repetitive inspections required by this AD. Alternative Methods of Compliance (d) In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, the Manager, International Branch, FAA, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, is authorized to approve alternative methods of compliance for this AD. Incorporation by Reference (e) The actions shall be done in accordance with Dornier Alert Service Bulletin ASB-328-27-036, dated February 12, 2003; or Dornier Alert Service Bulletin ASB-328J-27-013, dated February 12, 2003; as applicable. This incorporation by reference was approved by the Director of the Federal Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Copies may be obtained from AvCraft Aerospace GmbH, P.O. Box 1103, D-82230 Wessling, Germany. Copies may be inspected at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington; or at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, Call 202-741-6030, or go to: http//www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html . Note 3: The subject of this AD is addressed in German airworthiness directives 2003-383 and 2003-384, both dated November 13, 2003. Effective Date (f) This amendment becomes effective on June 9, 2004. Issued in Renton, Washington, on April 26, 2004. Kalene C. Yanamura, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 04-10022 Filed 5-4-04; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P