99-15926. Airworthiness Directives; McDonnell Douglas Model DC-9, DC-9-80, and C-9 (Military) Series Airplanes; Model MD-88 Airplanes; and Model MD-90 Airplanes  

  • [Federal Register Volume 64, Number 123 (Monday, June 28, 1999)]
    [Unknown Section]
    [Pages 34519-34523]
    From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
    [FR Doc No: 99-15926]
    
    
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    DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
    
    Federal Aviation Administration
    
    14 CFR Part 39
    
    [Docket No. 98-NM-147-AD; Amendment 39-11208; AD 99-13-13]
    RIN 2120-AA64
    
    
    Airworthiness Directives; McDonnell Douglas Model DC-9, DC-9-80, 
    and C-9 (Military) Series Airplanes; Model MD-88 Airplanes; and Model 
    MD-90 Airplanes
    
    AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration, DOT.
    
    ACTION: Final rule.
    
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    SUMMARY: This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD), 
    applicable to certain McDonnell Douglas Model DC-9, DC-9-80, and C-9 
    (military) series airplanes; Model MD-88 airplanes; and Model MD-90 
    airplanes, that requires a one-time inspection of the forward attach 
    pins of the outboard flight spoiler actuators to determine whether the 
    pins are of correct length, and follow-on corrective actions. This 
    amendment is prompted by a report that forward attach pins of
    
    [[Page 34520]]
    
    incorrect length were found to be installed in the flight spoiler 
    actuators on several in-service and in-production airplanes. The 
    actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent failure of the 
    piston of the flight spoiler actuator and consequent puncturing of the 
    aft spar web, which could result in fuel leakage and reduced structural 
    integrity of the wings.
    
    DATES: Effective August 2, 1999.
        The incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in 
    the regulations is approved by the Director of the Federal Register as 
    of August 2, 1999.
    
    ADDRESSES: The service information referenced in this AD may be 
    obtained from Boeing Commercial Aircraft Group, Long Beach Division, 
    3855 Lakewood Boulevard, Long Beach, California 90846, Attention: 
    Technical Publications Business Administration, Dept. C1-L51 (2-60). 
    This information may be examined at the Federal Aviation Administration 
    (FAA), Transport Airplane Directorate, Rules Docket, 1601 Lind Avenue, 
    SW., Renton, Washington; or at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 
    Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, 
    Lakewood, California; or at the Office of the Federal Register, 800 
    North Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, Washington, DC.
    
    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Brent Bandley, Aerospace Engineer, 
    Airframe Branch, ANM-120L, FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, Los 
    Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, 
    Lakewood, California 90712-4137; telephone (562) 627-5237; fax (562) 
    627-5210.
    
    SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: A proposal to amend part 39 of the Federal 
    Aviation Regulations (14 CFR part 39) to include an airworthiness 
    directive (AD) that is applicable to certain McDonnell Douglas Model 
    DC-9, DC-9-80, and C-9 (military) series airplanes; Model MD-88 
    airplanes; and Model MD-90 airplanes was published in the Federal 
    Register on July 13, 1998 (63 FR 37508). That action proposed to 
    require a one-time inspection of the forward attach pins of the 
    outboard flight spoiler actuators to determine whether the pins are of 
    correct length, and follow-on corrective actions.
    
    Comments Received
    
        Interested persons have been afforded an opportunity to participate 
    in the making of this amendment. Due consideration has been given to 
    the comments received.
    
    Support for the Proposed Rule
    
        One commenter supports the proposed rule.
    
    Requests To Revise or Delete Paragraph (c) of the Proposed AD
    
        One commenter requests that the FAA revise paragraph (c) of the 
    proposed AD to read, ``As of the effective date of this AD, no person 
    shall install a forward attach pin of the flight spoiler actuator, P/N 
    4935329-1 or 4935329-501 to be used on piston P/N 4913415-505 or   P/N 
    4913415-507, on any airplane.'' The commenter states, as paragraph (c) 
    of the proposed AD is currently worded, it may create confusion that a 
    forward attach pin, P/N 4935329-1, must be installed on actuators with 
    a piston,   P/N 4913415-501. Actuators with a piston, P/N 4913415-501, 
    are eligible for installation as long as the aircraft has been modified 
    in accordance with ``S/B 27-300 Option #1.'' The commenter also states 
    that, due to the stack up of tolerances, the use of a forward attach 
    pin, P/N 4935329-503, on a piston,
    P/N 4913415-501, could eliminate the anti-rotation attribute of the 
    pin, and consequently, could cause the pin to bind in the bushings. 
    Such binding would translate to the rotation of the bushings in the 
    lugs and cause scoring and wear of the piston lugs, which would create 
    stress risers that could greatly reduce the strength of the piston 
    lugs.
        One commenter requests that the FAA revise paragraph (c) of the 
    proposed AD to take into account that the -1 pin may still be required 
    on the aircraft. The commenter notes that P/N 5913900-5523 actuators 
    are still acceptable for use in the inboard positions, and that all 
    outboard positions may not have been reworked in accordance with AD 97-
    02-08, amendment 39-9893 (62 FR 3985, January 28, 1997), by the time 
    this new AD is released. The proper pin for use with the P/N 5913900-
    5523 actuators is the P/N 4935329-1 pin.
        One commenter requests that paragraph (c) of the proposed AD be 
    revised to include a note that reads, ``NOTE: The -1 pin is still used 
    on other than 4913415-505 and 4913415-507 piston assemblies.'' The 
    commenter provides no justification for its request.
        One commenter requests that the FAA delete paragraph (c) of the 
    proposed AD. The commenter states that the P/N 4913415-501 piston is a 
    legal assembly in accordance with AD 97-02-08 R1, amendment 39-9928 (62 
    FR 6708, February 13, 1997), provided that aft spar web protective 
    doublers are installed in accordance with McDonnell Douglas Service 
    Bulletin DC9-27-355, dated February 24, 1998 (which is referenced in 
    this AD as an appropriate source of service information for 
    accomplishment of the requirements of this AD).
        One commenter states that the forward attach pins identified in 
    paragraph (c) of the proposed AD may be used in flight spoilers other 
    than those installed in the outboard position. The commenter points out 
    that, if only the outboard positions are inspected in accordance with 
    the proposed AD, those pins that are on the actuators in the inboard 
    positions having other part number pistons would go uninspected. This 
    would appear to conflict with the requirements of paragraph (c) of the 
    proposed AD.
        The FAA acknowledges that clarification of the requirements of 
    paragraph (c) of the proposed AD is necessary. The FAA's intent was 
    that no person shall install a forward attach pin (P/N 4935329-1 or P/N 
    4935329-501) in piston assembly (P/N 4913415-505 or   P/N 4913415-507) 
    of the outboard flight spoiler actuator on any airplane. However, 
    because paragraph (c) of the proposed AD is confusing and because 
    operators will be remarking correct length pins and reidentifying them 
    with P/N 4935329-503, the FAA has determined not to retain paragraph 
    (c) of the proposed AD in the final rule.
        In addition, the FAA finds that further clarification is necessary. 
    The FAA's concern is about the outboard flight spoiler actuator because 
    only at the outboard location can a failed piston lug puncture the aft 
    spar web and result in fuel leakage. (The inboard location of the aft 
    spar web is thick enough to prevent such puncturing.) The requirements 
    of both AD 97-02-08 R1 and this final rule are intended to prevent 
    puncturing of the aft spar web and resultant fuel leakage.
    
    Requests To Revise the Applicability Statement
    
        One commenter requests that the applicability statement of the 
    proposed AD be revised to exclude airplanes that have incorporated 
    Option 1 of McDonnell Douglas Service Bulletin DC9-27-300, dated June 
    16, 1997 (referenced in AD 97-02-08 R1 as the appropriate source of 
    service information for accomplishment of the requirements of that AD), 
    or that a note be included in the final rule that acknowledges Option 1 
    as an alternative method of compliance. The commenter states that 
    airplanes on which Option 1 of the subject service bulletin has been 
    accomplished, or on which the old piston, P/N 4913415-501 (or prior), 
    has been installed, are safe to fly with the
    
    [[Page 34521]]
    
    existing spoiler attach pins installed and do not require incorporation 
    of McDonnell Douglas Service Bulletin DC9-27-355.
        From this comment, the FAA infers that this commenter is requesting 
    that the applicability statement be revised due to confusion over the 
    requirements of paragraph (c) of the proposed AD. The FAA does not 
    concur. As discussed previously, the FAA has determined not to retain 
    paragraph (c) of the proposed AD in the final rule. The FAA notes that 
    airplanes on which only a piston assembly having P/N 4913415-505 or   
    P/N 4913415-507 of the outboard flight spoiler actuator has been 
    installed are subject to the addressed unsafe condition of this AD. 
    Therefore, the FAA finds that no change to applicability statement of 
    the final rule is necessary.
        One commenter states that under the heading ``Concurrent 
    Requirements'' of McDonnell Douglas Service Bulletin DC9-27-355, the 
    text reads ``Aircraft with Service Bulletin DC9-27-300 Option 1 
    accomplished * * * are not affected.'' The commenter contends that an 
    operator may accomplish Option 1 of Service Bulletin DC9-27-300, which 
    involves installing doublers. However, the FAA notes that at anytime, 
    piston   P/N 4913415-505 or P/N 4913415-507 may have been installed. 
    This creates a situation where Option 1 of Service Bulletin DC9-27-300 
    has been accomplished but the installed piston and pin are still 
    suspect. The commenter also states that Option II of Service Bulletin 
    DC9-27-300 gives no definitive actuator identification instructions. 
    This creates a situation where any dash number actuator assembly may 
    have a suspect piston and pin installed. The commenter suggests that a 
    possible solution would be to require measurement of the piston lugs to 
    determine which piston has been installed.
        From this comment, the FAA infers that the commenter is requesting 
    that the applicability statement of the proposed AD be revised to 
    exclude airplanes equipped with external protective doublers between 
    the outboard flight spoiler actuator and the aft spar webs. The FAA 
    does not concur. Airplanes on which only Option 1 of Service Bulletin 
    DC9-27-300 (which is required by AD 97-02-08 R1) has been accomplished 
    are not subject to the requirements of this AD. As indicated in the 
    applicability statement, this AD applies to certain airplanes on which 
    a piston assembly having P/N 4913415-505 or 4913415-507 is installed. 
    In addition, the FAA finds that a measurement to determine which piston 
    is installed is unnecessary because this AD specifically identifies the 
    dash number of the affected pin assembly.
    
    Requests To Extend Compliance Time
    
        Several commenters request that the compliance time for 
    accomplishing the removal and one-time visual inspection required by 
    paragraph (a) of the proposed AD be extended from the proposed 18 
    months. One commenter states that the removal of actuators will require 
    extensive maintenance requirements. One commenter states that, as 
    paragraph (c) of the proposed AD is currently worded, it would have to 
    inspect twice as many units as initially proposed. Another commenter 
    states that an 18-month extension would minimize the impact on its 
    operation and aid in scheduling of the inspection/modification.
        The FAA does not concur with the commenters' request. As discussed 
    previously under the heading ``Requests to Revise or Delete Paragraph 
    (c) of the Proposed AD,'' operators are required to inspect the forward 
    attach pins of only the outboard flight spoiler actuators, not both the 
    outboard and inboard as suggested by some of the commenters. Because 
    stress corrosion is time dependent rather than landing dependent, the 
    FAA finds that a 5,000-landing compliance time, as suggested by one of 
    the commenters, would be inappropriate. In developing an appropriate 
    compliance time for these actions, the FAA considered the safety 
    implications, parts availability, and normal maintenance schedules for 
    timely accomplishment of the removal and inspection. In consideration 
    of these factors, the FAA has determined that the 18-month initial 
    compliance time, as proposed, is appropriate. However, under the 
    provisions of paragraph (c) of the final rule, the FAA may approve 
    requests for adjustments to the compliance time if data are submitted 
    to substantiate that such an adjustment would provide an acceptable 
    level of safety.
    
    Request To Allow Replacement of Pins With Serviceable or 
    Reidentified Pins
    
        One commenter requests that paragraph (a)(2)(i) of the proposed AD 
    be revised to allow the use of serviceable and reidentified forward 
    attach pins as well as new pins. The commenter notes that some 
    operators may elect to send pins to the shop for length inspection and 
    reidentification, which could result in the pins being reinstalled on 
    another aircraft. The FAA concurs. The FAA finds that installing 
    serviceable and reidentified, as well as new, forward attach pins is 
    acceptable for compliance with the requirements of paragraphs 
    (a)(2)(i), (a)(2)(ii)(A), and (a)(2)(ii)(B) of the final rule. 
    Therefore, the final rule has been revised accordingly.
    
    Request To Use a New Tool
    
        One commenter states that it recently has developed a tool which 
    will allow gauging the pins to differentiate between the short pins and 
    the proper length pins. The commenter also states that the use of this 
    tool would eliminate the requirement for removing the pin for 
    measurement. An alternative method of identification also could be used 
    such as the application of paint to the end of the pin, which is 
    accessible. The commenter notes that the use of this tool would greatly 
    minimize the economic impact of the proposed AD.
        The FAA does not concur. The commenter did not provide sufficient 
    information to the FAA to justify the use of such a tool. However, 
    paragraph (c) of the final rule does provide affected operators the 
    opportunity to apply for an alternative method of compliance, such as 
    the use of a new tool or application of paint.
    
    Request to Delete Reporting Requirement
    
        One commenter requests that paragraph (b) of the proposed AD be 
    deleted. The commenter states that a reporting requirement places an 
    additional burden on the operator and has no useful purpose since all 
    discrepant parts are being removed from service. The FAA does not 
    concur. When the unsafe condition addressed by an AD action appears to 
    be attributed to a manufacturer's quality control (QC) problem (such as 
    this AD), such a reporting requirement is instrumental in ensuring that 
    the FAA is able to gather as much information as possible as to the 
    extent and nature of the QC problem or QC breakdown, especially in 
    cases where such data may not be available through other established 
    means. This information is necessary to ensure that proper corrective 
    action is implemented.
    
    Request to Revise Reporting Requirement
    
        One commenter requests that the compliance time for the reporting 
    requirement in paragraph (b) of the proposed AD be revised from 10 days 
    to 30 days. The commenter states that such an extension will allow time 
    to receive paperwork from the inspection stations, review and analyze 
    the results, and compile the data. The FAA does not concur. In 
    developing an appropriate compliance time, the FAA considered
    
    [[Page 34522]]
    
    the time necessary for submitting a report of the inspection results to 
    the FAA in a timely manner. The FAA has determined that a 10-day 
    compliance time is appropriate. However, paragraph (c) of the final 
    rule does provide affected operators the opportunity to apply for an 
    adjustment of the compliance time if data are presented to justify such 
    an adjustment.
    
    Requests to Revise Cost Impact
    
        Two commenters note that the economic impact of the proposed rule 
    has been underestimated. In order to gain access to the flight spoiler 
    forward attach pin to conduct the required inspection, these commenters 
    state that it is necessary to remove the actuator. One commenter 
    estimates that it will take approximately six work hours per aircraft 
    to accomplish the pin inspection (including removal and reinstallation 
    of the forward attach pin), as compared to the five work hours 
    estimated in the proposed rule. The other commenter estimates that it 
    will take 16 work hours.
        From these comments, the FAA infers that the commenters are 
    requesting that the Cost Impact section of the proposed AD be revised. 
    The FAA does not concur. The cost impact information, below, describes 
    only the ``direct'' costs of the specific actions required by this AD. 
    The number of work hours necessary to accomplish the required actions, 
    specified as 5 in the cost impact information, below, was provided to 
    the FAA by the manufacturer based on the best data available to date. 
    This number represents the time necessary to perform only the actions 
    actually required by this AD. The FAA recognizes that, in accomplishing 
    the requirements of any AD, operators may incur ``incidental'' costs in 
    addition to the ``direct'' costs. The cost analysis in AD rulemaking 
    actions, however, typically does not include incidental costs, such as 
    the time required to gain access and close up; planning time; or time 
    necessitated by other administrative actions. Because incidental costs 
    may vary significantly from operator to operator, they are almost 
    impossible to calculate.
    
    Request to Revise Descriptive Language in Discussion Section of 
    Proposed AD
    
        One commenter points out that, in addition to McDonnell Douglas 
    Model DC-9-80 and Model MD-90 airplanes, the incorrect length pins were 
    found on Model DC-9 and MD-88 series airplanes. From this comment, the 
    FAA infers that the commenter is requesting that the FAA revise the 
    wording of the reported incident that appeared in the Discussion 
    Section of the AD.
        The same commenter requests that the word ``nut'' be replaced with 
    ``washer'' in the sentence in the Discussion Section of the proposed AD 
    that reads ``If a forward attach pin is too short, the pin and nut * * 
    *''
        The FAA finds that no revision to this final rule in the manner 
    suggested by the commenter is necessary, since the Discussion section 
    of the proposed AD does not reappear in the final rule.
    
    Conclusion
    
        After careful review of the available data, including the comments 
    noted above, the FAA has determined that air safety and the public 
    interest require the adoption of the rule with the changes previously 
    described. The FAA has determined that these changes will neither 
    increase the economic burden on any operator nor increase the scope of 
    the AD.
    
    Cost Impact
    
        There are approximately 1,700 airplanes of the affected design in 
    the worldwide fleet. The FAA estimates that 1,134 airplanes of U.S. 
    registry will be affected by this AD.
        It will take approximately 5 work hours per airplane (including 
    removal and reinstallation of the forward attach pin) to accomplish the 
    required one-time visual inspection, at an average labor rate of $60 
    per work hour. Based on these figures, the cost impact of this 
    inspection required by this AD on U.S. operators is estimated to be 
    $340,200, or $300 per airplane.
        If the forward attach pin is determined to be of correct length, it 
    will take approximately 1 work hour per airplane to accomplish the 
    necessary modification, at an average labor rate of $60 per work hour. 
    Based on these figures, the cost impact of this modification required 
    by this AD on U.S. operators is estimated to be $60 per airplane.
        If the forward attach pin is determined to be of incorrect length, 
    it will take approximately 1 work hour per airplane to accomplish the 
    follow-on visual inspection and replacement of the pin, at an average 
    labor rate of $60 per work hour. New pins will be provided by the 
    manufacturer at no cost to the operators. Based on these figures, the 
    cost impact of the follow-on visual inspection and replacement is 
    estimated to be $60 per airplane.
        Should an operator be required to accomplish the HFEC inspection, 
    it will take approximately 11 work hours per airplane to accomplish 
    (including removal and reinstallation of the flight spoiler actuator), 
    at an average labor rate of $60 per work hour. Based on these figures, 
    the cost impact of the HFEC inspection is estimated to be $660 per 
    airplane.
        Should an operator be required to accomplish the replacement of the 
    piston assembly of the flight spoiler actuator, it will take 
    approximately 5 work hours per airplane to accomplish, at an average 
    labor rate of $60 per work hour. Required parts will cost approximately 
    $2,590 per airplane. Based on these figures, the cost impact of the 
    replacement on U.S. operators is estimated to be $2,890 per airplane.
        The cost impact figures discussed above are based on assumptions 
    that no operator has yet accomplished any of the requirements of this 
    AD action, and that no operator would accomplish those actions in the 
    future if this AD were not adopted.
    
    Regulatory Impact
    
        The regulations adopted herein will not have substantial direct 
    effects on the States, on the relationship between the national 
    government and the States, or on the distribution of power and 
    responsibilities among the various levels of government. Therefore, in 
    accordance with Executive Order 12612, it is determined that this final 
    rule does not have sufficient federalism implications to warrant the 
    preparation of a Federalism Assessment.
        For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this action (1) is 
    not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 12866; 
    (2) is not a ``significant rule'' under DOT Regulatory Policies and 
    Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and (3) will not have a 
    significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial 
    number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory 
    Flexibility Act. A final evaluation has been prepared for this action 
    and it is contained in the Rules Docket. A copy of it may be obtained 
    from the Rules Docket at the location provided under the caption 
    ADDRESSES.
    
    List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
    
        Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by 
    reference, Safety.
    
    Adoption of the Amendment
    
        Accordingly, pursuant to the authority delegated to me by the 
    Administrator, the Federal Aviation Administration amends part 39 of 
    the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR part 39) as follows:
    
    [[Page 34523]]
    
    PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
    
        1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
    
        Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
    
    
    Sec. 39.13  [Amended]
    
        2. Section 39.13 is amended by adding the following new 
    airworthiness directive:
    
    99-13-13  McDonnell Douglas: Amendment 39-11208. Docket 98-NM-147-
    AD.
    
        Applicability: Model DC-9-10, -20, -30, -40, and -50 series 
    airplanes, Model DC-9-81 (MD-81), DC-9-82 (MD-82), DC-9-83 (MD-83), 
    and DC-9-87 (MD-87) series airplanes, Model MD-88 airplanes, and C-9 
    (military) series airplanes, as listed in McDonnell Douglas Service 
    Bulletin DC9-27-355, dated February 24, 1998; and Model MD-90 
    airplanes, as listed in McDonnell Douglas Service Bulletin MD90-27-
    024, dated February 24, 1998; on which a piston assembly of the 
    flight spoiler actuator having part number (P/N) 4913415-505 or 
    4913415-507 is installed; 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 (c) 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.
    
        Compliance: Required as indicated, unless accomplished 
    previously.
        To prevent failure of the piston of the flight spoiler actuator 
    and consequent puncturing of the aft spar web, which could result in 
    fuel leakage and reduced structural integrity of the wings, 
    accomplish the following:
        (a) Within 18 months after the effective date of this AD, remove 
    the forward attach pin of the outboard flight spoiler actuator of 
    the left and right wings of the airplane, and perform a one-time 
    visual inspection of the pin to determine whether it is of correct 
    length, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of 
    McDonnell Douglas Service Bulletin DC9-27-355 [for Model DC-9-10, -
    20, -30, -40, -50 series airplanes; Model C-9 (military) series 
    airplanes; Model DC-9-81 (MD-81), -82 (MD-82), -83 (MD-83), and -87 
    (MD-87) series airplanes; and Model MD-88 airplanes], or MD90-27-024 
    (for Model MD-90 airplanes), both dated February 24, 1998, as 
    applicable.
        (1) Condition 1 (Correct Length). If the forward attach pin is 
    of correct length, prior to further flight, modify the pin by 
    reidentifying it with P/N 4935329-503, in accordance with the 
    applicable service bulletin.
        (2) Condition 2 (Incorrect Length). If the forward attach pin is 
    of incorrect length, prior to further flight, perform a follow-on 
    visual inspection of the piston lugs of the flight spoiler actuator 
    for corrosion at the outer transition radii, or discrepancies of the 
    cadmium plating of the lugs, in accordance with the applicable 
    service bulletin.
        (i) If no corrosion or discrepancy of the cadmium plating of the 
    lugs is detected, prior to further flight, install a forward attach 
    pin, P/N 4935329-503, that is new, serviceable, or reidentified in 
    accordance with paragraph (a)(1) of this AD, and install a new 
    washer and nut; in accordance with the applicable service bulletin.
        (ii) If any corrosion or discrepancy of the cadmium plating of 
    the lugs is detected, prior to further flight, remove the actuator 
    and attaching parts, and perform a high frequency eddy current 
    inspection for cracking of the lugs of the actuator, in accordance 
    with the applicable service bulletin.
        (A) If no cracking of the lugs is detected, prior to further 
    flight, reinstall the flight spoiler actuator and attaching parts, 
    and install a forward attach pin, P/N 4935329-503, that is new, 
    serviceable, or reidentified in accordance with paragraph (a)(1) of 
    this AD, and install a new washer and nut; in accordance with the 
    applicable service bulletin.
        (B) If any cracking of the lugs is detected, prior to further 
    flight, replace the existing piston assembly of the flight spoiler 
    actuator with a new piston assembly having the same P/N; reinstall 
    the flight spoiler actuator and attaching parts; and install a 
    forward attach pin, P/N 4935329-503, that is new, serviceable, or 
    reidentified in accordance with paragraph (a)(1) of this AD, and 
    install a new washer and nut; in accordance with the applicable 
    service bulletin.
        (b) Within 10 days after accomplishing the inspection required 
    by paragraph (a) of this AD, submit a report of the inspection 
    results (both positive and negative findings) to the Manager, Los 
    Angeles Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA, Transport Airplane 
    Directorate, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, California 90712-
    4137; 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.
    
    Alternative Methods of Compliance
    
        (c) 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 ACO. 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 2: Information concerning the existence of approved 
    alternative methods of compliance with this AD, if any, may be 
    obtained from the Los Angeles ACO.
    
    Special Flight Permits
    
        (d) 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.
    
    Incorporation by Reference
    
        (e) The actions shall be done in accordance with McDonnell 
    Douglas Service Bulletin DC9-27-355, dated February 24, 1998; or 
    McDonnell Douglas Service Bulletin MD90-27-024, dated February 24, 
    1998; 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 Boeing 
    Commercial Aircraft Group, Long Beach Division, 3855 Lakewood 
    Boulevard, Long Beach, California 90846, Attention: Technical 
    Publications Business Administration, Dept. C1-L51 (2-60). Copies 
    may be inspected at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 
    Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington; or at the FAA, Transport 
    Airplane Directorate, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, 
    3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, California; or at the Office of 
    the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, 
    Washington, DC.
        (f) This amendment becomes effective on August 2, 1999.
    
        Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 17, 1999.
    Dorenda D. Baker,
    Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
    Service.
    [FR Doc. 99-15926 Filed 6-25-99; 8:45 am]
    BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
    
    
    

Document Information

Effective Date:
8/2/1999
Published:
06/28/1999
Department:
Federal Aviation Administration
Entry Type:
Uncategorized Document
Action:
Final rule.
Document Number:
99-15926
Dates:
Effective August 2, 1999.
Pages:
34519-34523 (5 pages)
Docket Numbers:
Docket No. 98-NM-147-AD, Amendment 39-11208, AD 99-13-13
RINs:
2120-AA64: Airworthiness Directives
RIN Links:
https://www.federalregister.gov/regulations/2120-AA64/airworthiness-directives
PDF File:
99-15926.pdf
CFR: (1)
14 CFR 39.13