AD 72-11-01

72-11-01 PIPER AIRCRAFT: Amdt. 39-1448. Applies to PA-23-235, PA-23-250, and PA-E23-250 series airplanes Serial Numbers 27-1 through 27-4765 inclusive, equipped with non-supercharged engines, including airplanes modified in accordance with STC SA179CE and STC SA867SW and certificated in all categories.

Compliance required as indicated.

In order to prevent possible explosion and fire resulting from fuel vapor ignition during engine starting, accomplish the following:

a. Serial Numbers 27-1 through 27-2504 inclusive: Prior to first flight of each day, visually check the lower surface of the wings in the areas of the fuel cells and aft nacelle for fuel stains and any odor of fuel vapor. If fuel stains or any other sign of fuel leakage are observed, the source of leakage must be determined and repairs or replacements accomplished prior to further flight, in accordance with Section IX of Piper Service Manual No. 753464 or an equivalent repair approved by the Chief, Engineering and Manufacturing Branch, FAA Eastern Region.

b. Serial Numbers 27-2505 through 27-4765 inclusive: Inspect in accordance with paragraph (a) above within 50 hours' time in service after the effective date of this AD or since the last inspection and every 50 hours thereafter.

c. The checks required by paragraphs (a) and (b) above may be performed by the pilot, including pilots of aircraft engaged in Air Carrier operations. A chronological listing of compliance with this AD must be made in the airplane's permanent maintenance log in accordance with FAR 91.173.

d. When the instruction paragraph contained in Piper Service Letter No. 606 is complied with or equivalent inspections and alterations approved by the Chief, Engineering and Manufacturing Branch, FAA Eastern Region, further compliance with this AD is not required.

(Piper Service Letters Nos. 449 and 449A refer to this subject.)

This AD supersedes AD 70-03-08.

This amendment is effective May19, 1972.