AD 80-21-11

80-21-11 PIPER AIRCRAFT CORPORATION: Amendment 39-3938. Applies to Model PA-44-180 (Seminole), serial numbers 44-7995001 through 44-8095027, airplanes certificated in all categories.

Compliance is required within the next 25 hours time in service after the effective date of this AD, unless already accomplished.

To prevent binding of the aileron push rod which could result in fatigue failure of the rod and possible loss of aileron control, accomplish the following:

NOTE: All instructions apply to both right and left ailerons.

(a) Remove bellcrank access cover on bottom of aft wing near push rod penetration point. Grasp aileron push rod between thumb and forefinger and rotate while moving aileron throughout entire travel. If free rotation of the push rod is evident in all aileron positions, no further action is required. Reinstall access cover.

(b) If push rod appears to be partially free but does not readily rotate and stop, inspect ball end at aileron actuator fitting and bearing ball sandwiched between rod clevis and at bellcrank for paint or other foreign material. Clean and lubricate ball end and bearing ball per the Piper PA-44 Service Manual and repeat Step (a). If requirements of Step (a) are met, no further action is required. Reinstall access cover.

(c) If push rod will not rotate freely throughout the aileron travel, replace the aileron push rod and aileron bellcrank assembly with new or serviceable parts. Rerig the aileron control system in accordance with the Piper PA-44 Service Manual and reinstall access plate.

(d) Make appropriate maintenance record entry.

(e) Compliance may be shown in an equivalent manner if approved by the Chief, Engineering and Manufacturing Branch, FAA, Southern Region.

NOTE: Piper Aircraft Corporation Service Bulletin No. 689 covers this same subject.

This amendment becomes effective October 17, 1980.