AD 97-19-15 Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 767 Series Airplanes

Models named: 767 series. Read the applicability below — it usually turns on serial or part numbers too.

All Model 767 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 request approval for an alternative method of compliance in accordance with paragraph (b) 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.

Required as indicated, unless accomplished previously. To prevent the generation of sparks and a potential ignition source inside the fuel tank caused by metal-to-metal contact during dry fuel pump operation, accomplish the following: (a) Within 14 days after the effective date of this AD, accomplish paragraphs (a)(1), (a)(2), (a)(3), and (a)(4) of this AD. (1) Revise the Limitations Section of the FAA-approved Airplane Flight Manual (AFM) to include the following procedures. This may be accomplished by inserting a copy of this AD in the AFM. If the center tank fuel pumps are to be used, there must be at least 5,000 pounds (2,267 kilograms) of fuel in the center tank prior to engine start. The center fuel pumps must be selected ``OFF'' at or greater than 1,000 pounds (453 kilograms) of fuel in the center tank. For airplanes not equipped with a center tank scavenge system, this 1,000 pounds (453 kilograms) of center tank fuel must be considered unusable. Note: On all Model 767-200ER/300ER series airplanes and some Model 767-200/300 series airplanes, a scavenge system, operating with fuel pressure from the main wing tank pumps, will operate automatically to transfer any fuel remaining in the center tank to the main tanks. Fuel transfer begins when the main tanks are approximately half empty. (2) Revise the Limitations Section of the FAA-approved AFM entitled ``FUEL SYSTEM, FUEL USAGE II (fuel in center tank),'' to include the following procedures. This may be accomplished by inserting a copy of this AD in the AFM. ``Use the center tank fuel for all operations with all operable fuel pumps ``ON'' and the cross feed valve(s) closed until the center tank fuel quantity is 1,000 pounds (453 kilograms) or greater, then use FUEL USAGE I. Do not operate the center tank fuel pumps with less than 1,000 pounds (453 kilograms) of fuel in the center tank. Note: The crossfeed valve(s) is open for minimum fuel operation, and may be opened to correct fuel imbalance.'' (3) Revise the Normal Procedures Section of the FAA-approved AFM to include the following procedure. This may be accomplished by inserting a copy of this AD in the AFM. ``Use of Fuel From the Center Tank When the center tank approaches ``EMPTY'' during normal use or fuel transfer, select both center tank fuel pump switches ``OFF'' with the first occurrence of any of the following: The center tank fuel reaches 1,000 pounds (453 kilograms); Either of the center tank fuel pump ``PRESS'' lights illuminate; or Either the ``CTR L FUEL PUMP'' or ``CTR R FUEL PUMP'' EICAS message is displayed.'' (4) Revise the Non-Normal Procedures Section of the FAA-approved AFM to include the following procedures. This may be accomplished by inserting a copy of this AD in the AFM. ``Center Tank Fuel Pump Faults A center tank fuel pump failure may have occurred if a fuel pump pressure light illuminates when there is ample fuel in the tank. If a fault is suspected, select the affected pump ``OFF'' and do not re-select ``ON.'' If the affected circuit breaker is tripped, do not reset. Select fuel crossfeed valve(s) ``OPEN.'' Attempted operation of a faulted center tank pump could ignite fuel tank vapors in an empty or nearly empty tank.'' (b) 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 Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate. Operators shall submit their requests through an appropriate FAA Principal Operations 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. (c) Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with sections 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. (d) This amendment becomes effective on October 2, 1997. Issued in Renton, Washington on September 11, 1997. James V. Devany, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 97-24630 Filed 9-16-97; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-U