AD 85-03-02

85-03-02 ROLLADEN-SCHNEIDER FLUGZEUGBAU GmbH: Amendment 39-4996. Applies to Models LS4 and LS4a sailplanes, serial numbers up to 4340 inclusive, certificated in any category.

Compliance is required prior to further flight, after the effective date of this AD, unless already accomplished.

To prevent possible jamming of lower air brake blade, accomplish the following:

(a) Assemble the sailplane.

(b) With air brakes fully extended, measure overlap between the bottom edge of the lower blade of the air brake and wing skin lip. If the distance is less than five millimeters (0.2 inches), proceed according to subparagraph (c) below. If distance is greater than five millimeters, no further action is required.

(c) (1) Retract air brakes until the overlap distance is at least five millimeters (0.2 inches) at both wing positions.

(2) Measure extended height of the air brake at the inboard edge. If the distance is less than 150 millimeters (5.91 inches) contactthe manufacturer and incorporate any necessary modifications.

(3) Install stop fitting P/N 4R6-15, using steel blind rivet (4mm dia. x 10mm lg.) on air brake pushrod in cockpit such that main bulkhead reduces travel to yield minimum overlap specified in paragraph (b).

NOTE: Rolladen-Schneider TB No. 4020, dated September 1, 1983, applies to this AD.

Upon request, an equivalent means of compliance with the requirements of this AD may be approved by the Manager, Aircraft Certification Office, AEU-100, Europe, Africa, and Middle East Office, FAA, c/o American Embassy, Brussels, Belgium 09667-1011; telephone 513.38.30.

Aircraft may be ferried in accordance with the provisions of Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) 21.197 and 21.199 to a base where the AD can be accomplished.

This amendment becomes effective on February 25, 1985.