97-23-10: Cable Tension Regulator On Elevators

97-23-10 DORNIER: Amendment 39-10198. Docket 96-NM-115-AD. Applicability: Model 328-100 series airplanes having serial numbers 3005 through 3045 inclusive; certificated in any category. NOTE 1: This AD applies to each airplane identified in the preceding applicability provision, regardless of whether it has been otherwise modified, altered, or repaired in the area subject to the requirements of this AD. For airplanes that have been modified, altered, or repaired so that the performance of the requirements of this AD is affected, the owner/operator must request approval for an alternative method of compliance in accordance with paragraph (b) of this AD. The request should include an assessment of the effect of the modification, alteration, or repair on the unsafe condition addressed by this AD; and, if the unsafe condition has not been eliminated, the request should include specific proposed actions to address it. Compliance: Required as indicated, unless accomplished previously. To prevent failure of the cable tension regulator on both the left and right elevators, and consequent reduced controllability of the airplane, accomplish the following: (a) Within 6 months after the effective date of this AD, modify the cable tension regulator on both the left and right elevators by installing two lateral plates on the lever arm, in accordance with Dornier Service Bulletin SB-328-27-116, dated September 26, 1995. (b) An alternative method of compliance or adjustment of the compliance time that provides an acceptable level of safety may be used if approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate. Operators shall submit their requests through an appropriate FAA Principal Maintenance Inspector, who may add comments and then send it to the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116. NOTE 2: Information concerning the existence of approved alternative methods of compliance with this AD, if any, may be obtained from the International Branch, ANM-116. (c) Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with sections 21.197 and 21.199 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199) to operate the airplane to a location where the requirements of this AD can be accomplished. (d) The modification shall be done in accordance with Dornier Service Bulletin SB-328- 27-116, dated September 26, 1995. This incorporation by reference was approved by the Director of the Federal Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Copies may be obtained from Dornier Deutsche Aerospace, P.O. Box 1103, D-82230 Wessling, Federal Republic of Germany. Copies may be inspected at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington; or at the Office of the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, Washington, DC. NOTE 3: The subject of this AD is addressed in German airworthiness directive 95-434, dated November 14, 1995. (e) This amendment becomes effective on December 17, 1997.