AD 90-13-13

90-13-13 GENERAL DYNAMICS (CONVAIR): Amendment 39-6638. Docket No. 89-NM-235-AD.

Applicability: Models 340, 440, and C-131, B, C, D, E, F, and G (Military) series airplanes, including all airplanes converted to turbopropeller power, certificated in any category.

Compliance: Required as indicated, unless previously accomplished.

To prevent progressive damage to the airframe, accomplish the following:

A. Perform a visual inspection of the fuselage frames in accordance with General Dynamics, Convair Division, Service Bulletin 640 (340D) 53-15, Revision 1, dated December 1, 1989, in accordance with the schedule below. Any drilled holes found which do not conform to the limitations specified in the service bulletin, or any holes found which are cracked, must be repaired prior to further flight, in accordance with the service bulletin. Any holes specifically used for attaching an FAA-approved interior, or original Convair manufacturing holes, may be disregarded ifthey are not degraded or cracked, and if they meet the criteria specified in the service bulletin.

1. Within 1,650 hours time-in-service or 18 months after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs first, accomplish the inspections specified in Part I of the service bulletin.

2. Within 2,300 hours time-in-service or 24 months after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs first, accomplish the inspections specified in Part II of the service bulletin.

B. Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with FAR 21.197 and 21.199 to operate airplanes to a base in order to comply with the requirements of this AD.

C. An alternate means of compliance or adjustment of compliance time, which provides an acceptable level of safety, may be used when approved by the Manager, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate.

NOTE: The request should be submitted directly to the Manager, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office,and a copy sent to the cognizant FAA Principal Maintenance Inspector (PMI). The PMI will then forward comments or concurrence to the Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office.

All persons affected by this directive who have not already received the appropriate service documents from the manufacturer may obtain copies upon request to the General Dynamics, Convair Division, P. O. Box 85377, San Diego, California 92138, Attn: Chief, Aircraft Logistical Support, Mail Zone 92-2920. These documents may be examined at the FAA, Northwest Mountain Region, Transport Airplane Directorate, 17900 Pacific Highway South Office, 3229 East Spring Street, Long Beach, California.

This amendment (39-6638, AD 90-13-13) becomes effective on July 30, 1990.