AD 61-12-01

61-12-01 DOUGLAS: Amdt. 293 Part 507 Federal Register June 3, 1961. Applies to All Model DC-8 Series Aircraft.

Compliance required as indicated.

An instance has been reported wherein the left wing flight spoilers extended during takeoff resulting in a left wing heavy condition. The loss of spoiler control was attributed to a sheared rivet in rod assembly P/N 4719278 of the aileron shift mechanism in the left wheel well. To preclude further difficulties with this part which can result in a hazardous condition, the following inspection, operational checks or rework must be accomplished:

(a) Prior to each flight, conduct an operational check of the outboard spoiler control system, observing the pressure drop in the spoiler hydraulic system during the check. During rapid rotation of the aileron control wheel a pressure drop of approximately 200 p.s.i. is normal. If a drop in hydraulic pressure does not occur, inspect the spoiler system for a sheared rivet in rod assembly P/N 4719278 of the spoiler shifting mechanism. If the rivet is not sheared a more thorough examination of the spoiler system should be made to determine and correct the cause of the malfunction since operation of the system should result in some pressure drop. In addition, after any maintenance work on the outboard spoilers or outboard spoiler control system and prior to return of the aircraft to service, the spoiler system should be thoroughly checked to ascertain that the rivet in rod assembly P/N 4719278 is not sheared and that the system operates normally. If sheared, the rivet must be replaced or "Rod Assembly-Lateral Control Spoiler" P/N 4719278-1 and "Spring" P/N 4771197-1B installed per Douglas Drawing No. 5718924 "J" change, or FAA approved equivalent, prior to next flight. Pilots and flight engineers, in addition to authorized maintenance personnel, are authorized to perform the operational check.

(b) The operational check and inspection described in (a) may bediscontinued when rework per Douglas Drawing No. 5718924 "J" change, or FAA approved equivalent, is accomplished.

(Douglas Service Bulletin No. A27-104 dated March 27, 1961, covers this subject.)

This directive effective June 9, 1961.