AD 79-02-02

79-02-02 PIPER AIRCRAFT CORPORATION: Amendment 39-3398. Applies to Model PA-44-180, serial numbers 44-7995001 through 44-7995003, 44-7995005 through 44-7995023, 44-7995025 through 44-7995053, 44-7995055 through 44-7995064, 44-7995066, 67, 69, 71, 73, and 74 airplanes certificated in all categories.

Compliance is required within the next 10 hours' time in service after the effective date of this AD unless already accomplished.

To prevent fuel leakage due to a damaged fuel line, accomplish the following:

(a) Remove the inspection plate (or plates) on the underside of the left and right wings, in the area of the electric fuel boost pump, inboard of the engine nacelle.

(b) Inspect the fuel supply lines part number 86238-03 (Left and Right), where the line passes through the rib lightening hole, for damage due to interference with the hole flange. If a fuel supply line is damaged, replace it with a serviceable line.

(c) Install a caterpillar grommet, part number 63976-34 (MS21266-1N) on the lower half of the rib lightening hole flange in both wings using a suitable cement to retain the grommet in position.

(d) Position the fuel supply line to obtain a minimum clearance of .125 inch from the caterpillar grommet.

(e) Reinstall the inspection plates on the left and right wings.

(f) Make an appropriate maintenance record entry.

(g) An alternate method of compliance may be approved by the Chief, Engineering and Manufacturing Branch, Federal Aviation Administration, Southern Region.

NOTE: Piper Service Bulletin; 627, dated October 24, 1978, pertains to this subject.

This amendment becomes effective January 24, 1979.