Summary
The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Boeing Model 727 airplanes. This proposed AD would require repetitive measurements of the freeplay of the left and right outboard aileron balance tabs and of the upper and lower rudder tabs, and related investigative/corrective actions if necessary. This proposed AD also would require repetitive lubrication of the hinge bearings and rod end bearings of the aileron balance tabs. This proposed AD results from reports of freeplay-induced vibration of the outboard aileron balance tab and rudder tab. We are proposing this AD to prevent excessive vibration of the airframe during flight, which could result in divergent flutter and loss of control of the airplane.