Summary
We propose to revise airworthiness directive (AD) 98-15-18 that applies to certain Maule Aerospace Technology, Inc. M-4, M-5, M-6, M-7, MT-7, MX-7, MXT-7, and M-8 airplanes that are equipped with rear wing lift struts, part number (P/N) 2079E, and/or front wing lift struts, P/N 2080E. AD 98-15-18 currently requires repetitively inspecting certain wing lift struts for internal corrosion and replacing of any wing lift strut where corrosion is found. Since we issued AD 98-15-18, we have been informed by the manufacturer that Model MXT-7-420 airplanes are no longer in existence, are no longer type certificated, and should be removed from the Applicability section. We have also been informed that paragraph (b) in AD 98-15-18 is being misinterpreted and is causing confusion. This proposed AD would remove Model MXT-7-420 airplanes from the Applicability section and clarify the intent of the language currently in paragraph (b) of AD 98-15-18. This proposed AD would retain all other requirements of the existing AD. We are proposing this AD to correct the unsafe condition on these products.