AD 79-21-06

79-21-06 GENERAL DYNAMICS: Amendment 39-3590 as amended by Amendment 39-3666. Applies to Model 240 series airplanes including those modified for turbo propeller power, certificated in all categories. Compliance required as indicated, unless already accomplished.

To prevent failure of the elevator flight tab spring tube, accomplish the following:

(a) Within 25 hours' time in service after the effective date of this AD, inspect the elevator flight tab spring tube per procedures set forth in Section 2, Accomplishment Instructions, of General Dynamics Service Bulletin 600 (240D) 27-5, dated July 18, 1979.

(b) For elevator flight tab spring tube P/N 240-3540305-24 or P/N 240-3540305-30 with 5,000 hours or more time in service after October 25, 1979, repeat the inspection of paragraph (a) of this AD within 50 hours' time in service from the inspection of paragraph (a) of this AD, and thereafter, at intervals not to exceed 50 hours' time in service from the previous inspection.

(c) For elevator flight tab spring tube P/N 240-3540305-35 or P/N 2D3540305-7 with 10,000 hours or more time in service after October 25, 1979, repeat the inspection of paragraph (a) of this AD within 100 hours' time in service from the inspection of paragraph (a) of this AD, and thereafter, at intervals not to exceed 100 hours' time in service from the previous inspection.

(d) Replace any cracked elevator flight tab spring tube with like serviceable part and revert to the repetitive inspection intervals per paragraph (b) or (c) of this AD, as appropriate.

(e) Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with FAR 21.197 and 21.199 to operate airplanes to a base for the accomplishment of inspections required by this AD.

(f) Alternative inspections, modifications or other actions which provide an equivalent level of safety may be used when approved by the Chief, Aircraft Engineering Division, FAA, Western Region.

Amendment 39-3590 became effective October 25, 1979.

This Amendment 39-3666 becomes effective January 21, 1980.