AD 98-25-11 Airworthiness Directives; McDonnell Douglas Model MD-11 Series Airplanes

Models named: MD-11 series. Read the applicability below — it usually turns on serial or part numbers too.

All Model MD-11 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 (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.

Required as indicated, unless accomplished previously. To prevent chafing of certain electrical wires above the forward passenger doors, which could result in an electrical fire in the passenger compartment, accomplish the following: (a) Within 10 days after the effective date of this AD, perform a visual inspection of the aircraft wiring to detect discrepancies that include but are not limited to frayed, chafed, or nicked wires and wire insulation in the areas specified in paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2) of this AD. (1) At the area of the forward drop ceiling just outboard of mod block S3-735, and forward and inboard of the light ballast for the entry light on the sliding ceiling panel above the forward left passenger door (1L) at station location x = 24.75, y = 435, and z = 64.5. Note 2: The area specified in paragraph (a)(1) of this AD is the same area that was identified in AD 98-25-11. (2) At the area above the forward right passenger door (1R) at station location x = -30, y = 430, and z = 70 in the ramp deflector assembly part number 4223570-501. (b) If any discrepancy is detected during the visual inspection required by paragraph (a) of this AD, prior to further flight, repair in accordance with Chapter 20, Standard Wiring Practices of the MD-11 Wiring Diagram Manual, dated January 1, 1998, or April 1, 1998. (c) Within 10 days after accomplishing the visual inspection required by paragraph (a) of this AD, submit a report of the inspection results (both positive and negative findings) to the Manager, FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, California 90712; telephone (562) 627-5350; fax (562) 627-5210. 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, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate. Operators shall submit their requests through an appropriate FAA Principal Maintenance Inspector, who may add comments and then send it to the Manager, Los Angeles ACO. Note 3: Information concerning the existence of approved alternative methods of compliance with this AD, if any, may be obtained from the Los Angeles ACO. (e) 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. (f) The effective date of this amendment remains December 28, 1998. Issued in Renton, Washington, on December 31, 1998. Darrell M. Pederson, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 99-480 Filed 1-8-99; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P