AD 87-10-07

87-10-07 ALEXANDER SCHLEICHER: Amendment 39-5603. Applies to Model ASK 21 gliders serial numbers 21001 through 21312 certificated in any category.

Compliance is required as indicated, unless already accomplished.

To prevent the failure of the rudder pedal support fitting P/N 99.000.2173 which could result in the glider becoming uncontrollable, accomplish the following:

(a) Within the next 10 hours time-in-service after the effective date of this AD unless compliance with paragraph (c) has been accomplished, visually inspect the rudder pedal support fitting P/N 99.000.2173 using a 10 power or greater magnifying glass, for cracks.

(b) If a cracked fitting is found during the inspection required by paragraph (a) of this AD, before further flight, replace the rudder pedal support fitting with a serviceable fitting, P/N 99.000.2174, in accordance with the action instructions of Alexander Schleicher ASK 21 Technical Note No. 19, dated October 22, 1986.

(c) Prior to July 15, 1987, replace any rudder pedal support fitting not replaced in accordance with paragraph (b) of this AD, with a serviceable fitting, P/N 99.000.2174, in accordance with Alexander Schleicher ASK 21 Technical Note No. 19, dated October 22, 1986.

Upon request, an equivalent means of compliance with the requirements of this AD may be approved by the Manager, Brussels Aircraft Certification Office, AEU-100, Europe, Africa, and Middle East Office, Federal Aviation Administration, c/o America Embassy, 15 Rue de la Loi B-1040 Brussels, Belgium; telephone number 513.38.30 ext. 2710 or the Manager, New York Aircraft Certification Office, Federal Aviation Administration, New England Region, Aircraft Certification Division, 181 South Franklin Avenue, Room 202, Valley Stream, New York 11581; telephone number 516-791-6680.

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

Alexander Schleicher ASK 21 Technical Note No. 19, dated October 22, 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 already received this document from the manufacturer may obtain a copy upon request to Eastern Sailplanes, Heath Stage Route, Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts 01370. 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, Room 311, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except federal holidays.

This amendment 39-5603 becomes effective May 13, 1987.