AD 87-02-01

87-02-01 SCHWEIZER AIRCRAFT CORP.: Amendment 39-5512. Applies to all Schweizer gliders (including kit built), all serial numbers certificated in any category, and all models listed below:

SGU 1-7 SGS 2-8 (TG-2) SGS 2-12 (TG-3) SGU 1-19 SGU 1-20 SGU 1-21 SGU 2-22, 2-22A, 2-22C, 2-22CK, 2-22E, 2-22EK SGS 1-23, 1-23B, 1-23C, 1-23D, 1-23E, 1-23F, 1-23G, 1-23H, 1-23H15 SGS 1-24 SGS 1-26, 1-26A, 1-26B, 1-26C, 1-26D, 1-26E SGS 2-32 SGS 2-33, 2-33A, 2-33AK SGS 1-34, 1-34R SGS 1-35C SGS 1-36 (Sprite)

Compliance is required as indicated unless already accomplished.

To prevent the possibility of the tow-hook inadvertently slipping out of the release-arm and releasing the tow-line, which could result in a forced landing, accomplish the following:

(a) Within the next 5 tow release actuations after the effective date of this AD, perform the following:

(1) Inspect the tow-release installation for proper part numbers, excessive wear, and possible rework or replacement of parts in accordance with Part 3A, 3B, and 3C in Schweizer Service Bulletin No. SA-001, dated October 3, 1986.

(2) Perform the operational check in accordance with Figure 4 in Schweizer Service Bulletin No. SA-001, dated October 3, 1986.

(b) Thereafter, at intervals not to exceed 100 hours time-in-service, accomplish the steps in Part 3B, and 3C, and Figure 4 in Schweizer Service Bulletin No. SA-001, dated October 3, 1986.

Upon request, an equivalent means of compliance with the requirements of this AD may be approved by the Manager, New York Aircraft Certification Office, Aircraft Certification Division, Federal Aviation Administration, New England Region, 181 South Franklin Avenue, Room 202, Valley Stream, New York 11581, Telephone (516) 791-6680.

Upon submission of substantiating data by an owner or operator through an FAA maintenance inspector, the Manager, New York Aircraft Certification Office, may adjust the compliance time specified in this AD.

Schweizer Service Bulletin No. SA-001, dated October 3, 1986, identified and described in this document, is incorporated herein and made a part hereof pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552(a)(1). All persons affected by this directive who have not received this document from the manufacturer may obtain copies upon request to Schweizer Aircraft Corp, P.O. Box 147, Elmira, New York 14902, Telephone (607) 739-3821. This document also may be examined at the Office of the Regional Counsel, Federal Aviation Administration, New England Region, 12 New England Executive Park, Burlington, Massachusetts 01803, Rules Docket Number 86-ANE-46, Room 311, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.

This amendment becomes effective on January 21, 1987.