AD 53-23-01

53-23-01 CONVAIR: Applies to All Model 240 Airplanes. Compliance required at each No. 1 inspection (regular inspection period nearest 100 hours).

There have been several failures of the nose landing gear clutch plate P/N 240-5250117 which have resulted in damage to the fuselage and exposed some of the flight control components to possible damage. To prevent the possibility of serious damage, the following special periodic inspection is required.

Effective immediately inspect nose landing gear clutch plate P/N 240-5250117 at each No. 1 inspection using magnetic particle, dye penetrant, or any other equivalent inspection method. If any cracks or other damage are found, replace damaged parts with new parts of same number or comply with changes described in Convair Service Bulletin No. 240-332 which incorporates a stronger clutch plate, P/N 240-5257113. If P/N 240-5257113 is installed, these special periodic inspections may be discontinued.