49-43-02: Stabilizer Spar Inspection

49-43-02 LUSCOMBE: Applies to All Model 8 Series Aircraft. Compliance required before December 15, 1949, or at the next 100-hour inspection whichever occurs first. As a result of several cases of excessive tightening of the attachment bolts for the stabilizer-fuselage front fittings thereby crushing the spacers and spar flanges, the following inspections and/or replacement are necessary: Inspect for crushing of the stabilizer front spar and the aluminum alloy reinforcing spacers. A slight set in the spar flange is not considered critical as long as no cracks exist in the spar. If appreciable crushing of the spar flange or cracks are found, the spar must be repaired and the aluminum alloy reinforcing spacers must be replaced. If spacers are crushed, they must be replaced. Spacers should be replaced with similar spacers fabricated of 4130 steel of at least 0.049- inch thickness and may be attached to the spar using blind rivets the same size as the originalrivets. An acceptable alternate replacement spacer may be made by cutting a 3/8-inch by 0.049- inch steel tube to fit between the spar flanges. The steel spacers should be zinc-chromated prior to the reassembly. Excessive tightening of the attachment bolts should be avoided on reassembly. (A torque value of 50 to 75 inch-pounds should be sufficient.)