AD 95-06-53 Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 737 Series Airplanes

Models named: 737 series. Read the applicability below — it usually turns on serial or part numbers too.

All Model 737 series airplanes, certificated in any category. Note 1: This AD applies to each airplane 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 airplanes that have been modified, altered, or repaired so that the performance of the requirements of this AD is affected, the owner/operator must use the authority provided in paragraph (d) to request approval from the FAA. This approval may address either no action, if the current configuration eliminates the unsafe condition; or different actions necessary to address the unsafe condition described in this AD. Such a request should include an assessment of the effect of the changed configuration on the unsafe condition addressed by this AD. In no case does the presence of any modification, alteration, or repair remove any airplane from the applicability of this AD.

Required as indicated, unless accomplished previously. To prevent the rudder actuator piston and the rudder from operating with reduced force capability or moving in a direction opposite the intended direction, and resultant reduced controllability of the airplane, accomplish the following: (a) Within 5 flights after the effective date of this AD, identify the part number and serial number of the main rudder power control unit (PCU). (b) If the PCU is identified with a part number and serial number specified in the list below, prior to further flight, remove the PCU from the airplane, and replace it with a serviceable part. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Part No. Serial No.(s) ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 65C37052-3........ 17SS, 49, 90A, 101, 138, 149A, 191A, 308A, 374, EGG0282. 65C37052-5........ 1211A. 65C37052-7........ 399A, 710A, 926A, 935A, 1175A, 1237A, 1493A, 1504A, 1546, 1561A, 67700. 65C37052-8........ 1090A, 1223, 1920, 2023A. 65C37052-9........ 0184, 247, 394A, 641A, 1739A, 1746A, 1796A, 1849A, 1997A, 2181A. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ (c) As of the effective date of this AD, no person shall install on any airplane a rudder PCU having a part number and serial number that is specified in the list contained in paragraph (b) of this AD unless paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), (c)(3), and (c)(4) of this AD are accomplished. (1) Perform a functional test of the PCU in accordance with Part II of the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Service Bulletin 737-27-1185, dated April 15, 1993. And (2) Check the torque value on the spring retainer, Part Number 68021-5, to determine that it measures a minimum of 25 inch-pounds. If the torque value is less than 25 inch-pounds, repair in accordance with a method approved by the Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate. And (3) Repeat the functional test required by paragraph (c)(1) of this AD. The PCU must pass this functional test in order to be returned to service. And (4) The measurement required by paragraph (c)(2) of this AD must be reported to the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, Seattle ACO, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98055-4056; fax (206) 227- 1181. Information collection requirements contained in this regulation have been approved by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980 (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.) and have been assigned OMB Control Number 2120-0056. (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, Seattle ACO. Operators shall submit their requests through an appropriate FAA Principal Maintenance Inspector, who may add comments and then send it to the Manager, Seattle ACO. Note 2: Information concerning the existence of approved alternative methods of compliance with this AD, if any, may be obtained from the Seattle ACO. (e) Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with Secs. 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 accomplished. (f) The functional test shall be done in accordance with Boeing Service Bulletin 737-27-1185, dated April 15, 1993. The incorporation by reference of this document was approved previously by the Director of the Federal Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51 as of March 3, 1994 (59 FR 4570, February 1, 1994). Copies may be obtained from Boeing Commercial Airplane Group, P.O. Box 3707, Seattle, Washington 98124-2207. Copies may be inspected at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington; or at the Office of the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, Washington, DC. (g) This amendment becomes effective on May 1, 1995, to all persons except those persons to whom it was made immediately effective by telegraphic AD T95-06-53, issued on March 14, 1995, which contained the requirements of this amendment. Issued in Renton, Washington, on April 5, 1995. S.R. Miller, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 95-8828 Filed 4-13-95; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-U