Summary
This document proposes the adoption of a new airworthiness directive (AD) that is applicable to certain McDonnell Douglas Model DC-8 series airplanes. This proposal would require replacing certain transformer ballast assemblies in the first officer's console and electrical power center with certain new, improved ballast assemblies. This action is necessary to prevent overheating of ballast transformers due to high power demands resulting from aging, which could result in smoke in the cockpit. This action is intended to address the identified unsafe condition.