AD 99-25-07 Airworthiness Directives; BFGoodrich Main Brake Assemblies as Installed on Airbus Model A319 and A320 Series Airplanes

Models named: A319, A320 series. Read the applicability below — it usually turns on serial or part numbers too.

BFGoodrich main brake assemblies having part number (P/N) 2-1598 or 2-1600, as installed on Airbus Model A319 and A320 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 thermal oxidation of the main brake assemblies of the main landing gear (MLG), which could result in deterioration of the MLG brakes, and consequent reduced braking performance, accomplish the following: Detailed Visual Inspection (a) Within 10 days after the effective date of this AD, perform a one-time detailed visual inspection of the wear indicator pins to determine the level of wear of the main brake assemblies of the MLG, as specified in BFGoodrich Service Bulletin 2-1598-32-1, or 2-1600- 32-2, both dated November 5, 1999, as applicable. Note 2: For the purposes of this AD, a detailed visual 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.'' (1) If the remaining length of any wear indicator pin is less than or equal to 0.20 inch (5.1 mm) with the brake pressurized, prior to further flight, replace the brake assembly with a new or serviceable brake assembly, in accordance with Chapter 32-42-27 of the applicable Airplane Maintenance Manual (AMM). (2) If the remaining length of all wear indicator pins is greater than 0.20 inch (5.1 mm) with the brake pressurized, no further action is required by this paragraph. Modification (b) Within 30 days after the effective date of this AD, modify the main brake assemblies of the MLG by reducing the length of the wear indicator pins, in accordance with BFGoodrich Service Bulletin 2-1598-32-1, or 2-1600-32-2, both dated November 5, 1999, as applicable; and incorporate the new wear limits for the main brake assemblies specified in the applicable service bulletin into the FAA-approved maintenance program and comply with those limits thereafter. After accomplishing the modification, but no later than the next brake removal, re-identify the brake assemblies in accordance with the applicable service bulletin. Note 3: Once an operator has complied with the requirements of paragraph (b) of this AD, that paragraph does not require that operators subsequently record accomplishment of the requirements each time a brake is inspected or overhauled in accordance with that operator's FAA-approved maintenance inspection program. Spares (c) As of the effective date of this AD, no person shall install on any airplane a BFGoodrich main brake assembly having P/N 2-1598 or 2-1600, unless that assembly has been modified in accordance with this AD. 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, International Branch, ANM-116, 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, International Branch, ANM-116. Note 4: Information concerning the existence of approved alternative methods of compliance with this AD, if any, may be obtained from the International Branch, ANM-116. Special Flight Permits (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. Incorporation by Reference (f) The actions shall be done in accordance with BFGoodrich Service Bulletin 2-1598-32-1, dated November 5, 1999, or BFGoodrich Service Bulletin 2-1600-32-2, dated November 5, 1999, 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 BFGoodrich Aircraft Wheels and Brakes, P.O. Box 340, Troy, Ohio, 45373. Copies may be [[Page 68623]] 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 December 23, 1999. Issued in Renton, Washington, on November 24, 1999. D.L. Riggin, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 99-31474 Filed 12-7-99; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-U