Airworthiness directives: Boeing,

[Federal Register: November 15, 2006 (Volume 71, Number 220)]

[Proposed Rules]

[Page 66474-66480]

From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

[DOCID:fr15no06-17]

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2006-26323; Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-150-AD]

RIN 2120-AA64

Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 737 Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT).

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to supersede an existing airworthiness directive (AD) that applies to all Boeing Model 737 airplanes. The existing AD currently requires installation of a new rudder control system and changes to the adjacent systems to accommodate that new rudder control system. For certain airplanes, this proposed AD would add, among other actions, repetitive tests of the force fight monitor of the main rudder power control unit (PCU), repetitive tests of the standby hydraulic actuation system, and corrective action; as applicable. For those airplanes, this proposed AD also would add, among other actions, replacement of both input control rods of the main rudder PCU and the input control rod of the standby rudder PCU with new input control rods, as applicable, which would end the repetitive tests. For certain other airplanes, this proposed AD would add installation of an enhanced rudder control system in accordance with new service information. This proposed AD results from a report of a fractured rod end on an input control rod of the main rudder PCU. We are proposing this AD to prevent failure of one of the two input control rods of main rudder PCU, which, under certain conditions, could result in reduced controllability of the airplane; and to prevent failure of any combination of two input control rods of the main rudder PCU and/or standby rudder PCU, which could result in loss of control of the airplane. We are also proposing this AD to prevent an uncommanded rudder hardover event and consequent loss of control of the airplane due to inherent failure modes, including single-jam modes, and certain latent failures or jams combined with a second failure or jam.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by January 2, 2007.

[[Page 66475]]

ADDRESSES: Use one of the following addresses to submit comments on this proposed AD.

DOT Docket Web site: Go to http://dms.dot.gov and follow

the instructions for sending your comments electronically.

Government-wide rulemaking Web site: Go to http://www.regulations.gov and follow the instructions for sending your

comments electronically.

Mail: Docket Management Facility; U.S. Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Nassif Building, Room PL-401, Washington, DC 20590.

Fax: (202) 493-2251.

Hand Delivery: Room PL-401 on the plaza level of the Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.

Contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, P.O. Box 3707, Seattle, Washington 98124-2207, for service information identified in this proposed AD.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kenneth W. Frey, Aerospace Engineer, Systems and Equipment Branch, ANM-130S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057- 3356; telephone (425) 917-6468; fax (425) 917-6590.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

We invite you to submit any relevant written data, views, or arguments regarding this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address listed in the ADDRESSES section. Include the docket number ``Docket No. FAA-2006-26323; Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-150-AD'' at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of the proposed AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend the proposed AD in light of those comments.

We will post all comments we receive, without change, to http://dms.dot.gov , including any personal information you provide. We will

also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact with FAA personnel concerning this proposed AD. Using the search function of that Web site, anyone can find and read the comments in any of our dockets, including the name of the individual who sent the comment (or signed the comment on behalf of an association, business, labor union, etc.). You may review the DOT's complete Privacy Act Statement in the Federal Register published on April 11, 2000 (65 FR 19477-78), or may visit http://dms.dot.gov.

Examining the Docket

You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://dms.dot.gov , or in person at the Docket Management Facility office

between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The Docket Management Facility office (telephone (800) 647- 5227) is located on the plaza level of the Nassif Building at the DOT street address stated in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after the Docket Management System receives them.

Discussion

On October 30, 2002, we issued AD 2002-20-07 R1, amendment 39-12940 (67 FR 67518, November 6, 2002), for all Boeing Model 737 airplanes. That AD requires installation of a new rudder control system and changes to the adjacent systems to accommodate that new rudder control system. That AD resulted from FAA determinations that the existing system design architecture is unsafe. We issued that AD to prevent an uncommanded rudder hardover event and consequent loss of control of the airplane due to inherent failure modes, including single-jam modes, and certain latent failures or jams combined with a second failure or jam.

Actions Since Existing AD Was Issued

Since the issuance of AD 2002-20-07 R1, we have received a report of a fractured rod end on one of the two input control rods of the main rudder power control unit (PCU) on a Model 737-800 series airplane. This condition was discovered during heavy maintenance. The rod end had not separated from the input control rod and was retained by the sealant used during the assembly of the input control rod. The condition was discovered because the aft rod end of the lower input control rod appeared loose. If the rod end does not separate from the input control rod, there is no indication of fracture and it will not likely be detected during normal flight operation.

If a rod end separates from an input control rod of the main rudder PCU, the input to the A and B sides of the main rudder PCU (the main rudder PCU is a dual tandem actuator) will not match. This condition will cause a force fight between the A and B sides in the main rudder PCU, which will activate the force fight monitor, activate the standby hydraulic system, and illuminate the STBY RUD ON light on the P5-3 panel. Dispatch is not allowed with the STBY RUD ON light illuminated.

The incident airplane had been modified to comply with the requirements of AD 2002-20-07 R1. We previously approved the service bulletins in the table titled ``Previously Approved Service Bulletins'' as an alternative method of compliance (AMOC) for the requirements of AD 2002-20-07 R1. These service bulletins include procedures to replace both input control rods of the main rudder PCU and the input control rod of the standby rudder PCU (for certain airplanes) with new input control rod(s) having part number (P/N) 251A3495-1, which, we have since determined, had an improper heat treatment during manufacture.

Previously Approved Service Bulletins

For model--

Boeing Service Bulletin

737-100, -200, and -200C 737-27-1252, Revision 2, dated December series airplanes.

9, 2004; Revision 1, dated September 25, 2003; and Original Issue, dated June 26, 2003. 737-300, -400, and -500

737-27-1255, Revision 2, dated July 22, series airplanes.

2004; Revision 1, dated June 26, 2003; and Original Issue, dated May 1, 2003. 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, 737-27-1253, Revision 2, dated October 7, and -900 series airplanes. 2004; Revision 1, dated March 27, 2003; and Original Issue, dated January 2, 2003.

Failure of one of the two input control rods of the main rudder PCU under certain conditions, if not corrected, could result in reduced controllability of the airplane. Failure of any combination of two input control rods of the main rudder PCU and/or standby rudder PCU, if not corrected, could result in loss of control of the airplane.

[[Page 66476]]

Relevant Service Information

We have reviewed the service bulletins in the table titled ``Service Bulletins for Repetitive Tests and Other Actions.'' The service bulletins specify an initial compliance time for doing the initial test of the standby system of within 60 days after the date of the service bulletin, and a repetitive interval of 500 flight hours. The service bulletins also specify an initial compliance time for doing the initial test of the force fight monitor of within 90 days or 6,000 flight hours after the date of the service bulletin, depending on the airplane configuration, and a repetitive interval of 6,000 flight hours. For airplanes identified as Groups 1 and 2, Configuration 2, in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-27A1281, dated June 14, 2006; and airplanes identified as Group 1, Configuration 2, in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-27A1280, dated May 25, 2006; no work is necessary in accordance with these service bulletins. The improperly heat-treated control rods were not installed on those airplanes.

Service Bulletins for Repetitive Tests and Other Actions

Boeing Alert Describes procedures For certain model--

Service Bulletin for doing--

737-600, -700, -700C, -800 and 737-27A1280, The ``Rudder Main -900 series airplanes.

dated May 25, Power Control Unit 2005.

Force Fight Monitor Test,'' the ``Operational Test of the Standby Hydraulic Actuation System,'' and applicable corrective action if necessary. 737-100, -200, -200C, -300, - 737-27A1281, The ``Rudder Main 400, and -500 series

dated June 14, Power Control Unit airplanes.

  1. Force Fight Test,'' the ``Standby Rudder Actuator Shutoff Valve Test,'' and applicable corrective action if necessary.

    We also have reviewed the service bulletins in the table titled, ``Service Bulletins for Installation of an RSEP and Replacement of Input control rods.'' Boeing uses the acronym RSEP for the ``Rudder System Enhancement Program.''

    Service Bulletins for Installation of an RSEP and Replacement of Input Control Rods

    Which ends the repetitive tests For certain model--

    Boeing--

    Describes procedures for-- specified in Boeing Service Bulletin--

    737-100, -200, and -200C series Service Bulletin 737- Installing an RSEP (Part 737-27A1281, dated airplanes.

    27-1252, Revision 3, 1), and replacing both June 14, 2006. dated May 12, 2006. input control rods of the main rudder PCU with new input control rods (Part 2). 737-300, -400, and -500 series Service Bulletin 737- Installing an RSEP (Part 737-27A1281, dated airplanes.

    27-1255, Revision 3, 1), and replacing both June 14, 2006. dated May 10, 2006. input control rods of the main rudder PCU with new input control rods (Part 2). 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, and - Service Bulletin 737- Installing an RSEP (Part 737-27A1280, dated May 900 series airplanes.

    27-1253, Revision 3, 1); and replacing both 25, 2005. dated May 12, 2006. input control rods of the main rudder PCU with new input control rods, inspecting the control rod of the standby rudder PCU to determine if part number (P/N) 251A3495-1 is installed, and doing corrective action if necessary (Part 2) (i.e., replacing any improperly heat-treated input control rod with a new input control rod). Alert Service Bulletin Replacing both input

    737-27A1280, dated May 737-27A1279, dated control rods of the main 25, 2005. June 20, 2006.

    rudder PCU and the input control rod of the standby rudder PCU with new input control rod(s).

    Boeing Alert Service Bulletins 737-27-1252, 737-27-1253, and 737- 27-1255, all Revision 3, also specify prior or concurrent accomplishment of the actions described in the table titled, ``Prior/ Concurrent Service Information.''

    Prior/Concurrent Service Information

    Prior to or concurrently with the

    actions in Boeing Alert Service

    Do this action--

    In accordance with-- Bulletin--

    737-27-1252, Revision 3, dated May 12, Remove the rudder position Boeing Service Bulletin 737-22-1042, 2006.

    sensor of the automatic

    Revision 1, dated April 5, 1985. flight control system. Replace the rudder feel and Boeing Service Bulletin 737-27-1026, centering assembly with a new dated January 15, 1971. all-mechanical unit. Install the rudder pressure Boeing Service Bulletin 737-27A1206, reducer and yaw damper

    Revision 3, dated December 14, 2000. coupler. Install provisional wires for Boeing Service Bulletin 737-27-1246, rudder system enhancement. Revision 1, dated February 21, 2002. Replace the P5-3 panel with a Boeing Service Bulletin 737-27-1263, new panel.

    Revision 1, dated September 25, 2003.

    [[Page 66477]]

    Replace the input lever for Smiths Aerospace Service Bulletin 1150- the auxiliary rudder power 27-05A, dated August 28, 2003. control package with a new input lever. 737-27-1253, Revision 3, dated May 12, Install provisional wires for Boeing Service Bulletin 737-27-1247, 2006.

    rudder system enhancement. Revision 1, dated July 25, 2002. Replace the P5-3 panel with a Boeing Service Bulletin 737-27-1262, new panel.

    dated December 19, 2002. Relocate the wire bundle

    Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737- routing in the vertical

    27A1239, dated January 11, 2001. stabilizer. 737-27-1255, Revision 3, dated May 10, Install provisional wires for Boeing Service Bulletin 737-27-1246, 2006.

    rudder system enhancement. Revision 1, dated February 21, 2002. Replace the P5-3 panel with a Boeing Service Bulletin 737-27-1265, new panel.

    Revision 1, dated April 3, 2003. Install a new yaw damper

    Boeing Service Bulletin 737-27A1206, coupler.

    Revision 3, dated December 14, 2000. Inspect and rework the

    Boeing Service Bulletin 737-55-1052, trailing edge beam on the Revision 1, dated August 5, 2004. vertical fin. Replace the input lever for Smiths Aerospace Service Bulletin 1150- the auxiliary rudder power 27-05A, dated August 28, 2003. control package with a new input lever.

    Accomplishing the actions specified in the service information is intended to adequately address the unsafe condition.

    FAA's Determination and Requirements of the Proposed AD

    We have evaluated all pertinent information and identified an unsafe condition that is likely to develop on other airplanes of the same type design. For this reason, we are proposing this AD, which would supersede AD 2002-20-07 R1 and would retain the requirements of the existing AD. This proposed AD would also require accomplishing the actions specified in the applicable service information described previously. For certain airplanes, this proposed AD also would require suspending a certain Master Minimum Equipment Item, until the improperly heat-treated input control rods are replaced.

    Change to Existing AD

    This proposed AD would retain all requirements of AD 2002-20-07 R1. Since AD 2002-20-07 R1 was issued, the AD format has been revised, and certain paragraphs have been rearranged. As a result, the corresponding paragraph identifiers have changed in this proposed AD, as listed in the following table:

    Revised Paragraph Identifiers

    Corresponding requirement Requirement in AD 2002-20-07 R1

    in this proposed AD

    paragraph (a)............................. paragraph (f). paragraph (b)............................. paragraph (b) (with new title).

    Costs of Compliance

    There are about 6,412 airplanes of the affected design in the worldwide fleet. This proposed AD would affect about 1,678 airplanes of U.S. registry. The following table provides the estimated costs for U.S. operators to comply with this proposed AD. The average labor rate is $80 per work hour.

    Estimated Costs

    Work Action

    hours

    Parts

    Cost per airplane

    Fleet cost

    Installation of rudder control

    700 $140,000.......... $196,000..................... $328,888,000. system (required by AD 2002-20- 07 R1, and retained in this NPRM). Repetitive tests, per test

    2 None.............. $160, per test cycle......... Up to $268,480 cycle (new action proposed by

    depending on the this NPRM).

    configuration of the airplanes. Replacement of the input

    5 to 7 The manufacturer $400 to $560................. Up to $939,680, control rods (new action

    states that it

    depending the proposed by this NPRM) (ends

    will supply

    configuration of repetitive tests).

    required parts to

    the airplanes. the operators at no cost.

    Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs, describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.

    We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in subtitle VII, part A, subpart III, section 44701, ``General requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition

    [[Page 66478]]

    that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action.

    Regulatory Findings

    We have determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the National Government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.

    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that the proposed regulation:

  2. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 12866;

  3. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and

  4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

    We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to comply with this proposed AD and placed it in the AD docket. See the ADDRESSES section for a location to examine the regulatory evaluation.

    List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Safety.

    The Proposed Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

    PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

  5. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.

    Sec. 39.13 [Amended]

  6. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) amends Sec. 39.13 by removing amendment 39-12940 (67 FR 67518, November 6, 2002) and adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD):

    Boeing: Docket No. FAA-2006-26323; Directorate Identifier 2006-NM- 150-AD.

    Comments Due Date

    (a) The FAA must receive comments on this AD action by January 2, 2007.

    Affected ADs

    (b) This AD affects the ADs specified in paragraphs (b)(1), (b)(2), and (b)(3) of this AD.

    (1) This AD supersedes AD 2002-20-07 R1.

    (2) For airplanes on which the actions required by paragraph (f) of this AD have been done before the effective date of this AD: Doing the actions in paragraph (f) of this AD ends the requirements of the ADs listed in Table 1 of this AD.

    (3) For airplanes on which the actions required by paragraph (f) of this AD have not been done before the effective date of this AD: Doing the actions in paragraph (h) of this AD ends the requirements of the ADs listed in Table 1 of this AD.

    Table 1.--Other ADs

    AD

    Amendment

    97-09-15 R1.............................................

    39-10912 99-11-05................................................

    39-11175 2000-22-02 R1...........................................

    39-11948

    Applicability

    (c) This AD applies to all Boeing Model 737-100, -200, -200C, - 300, -400, -500, -600, -700,-700C, -800 and -900 series airplanes, certificated in any category.

    Unsafe Condition

    (d) This AD results from a report of a fractured rod end on an input control rod of the main rudder power control unit (PCU). We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of one of the two input control rods of the main rudder PCU, which, under certain conditions, could result in reduced controllability of the airplane; and to prevent failure of any combination of two input control rods of the main rudder PCU and/or standby rudder PCU, which could result in loss of control of the airplane. We are also issuing this AD to prevent an uncommanded rudder hardover event and consequent loss of control of the airplane due to inherent failure modes, including single-jam modes, and certain latent failures or jams combined with a second failure or jam.

    Compliance

    (e) You are responsible for having the actions required by this AD performed within the compliance times specified, unless the actions have already been done.

    Requirements of AD 2002-20-07 R1

    Installation

    (f) Except as provided by paragraphs (h) and (i) of this AD: Within 6 years after November 12, 2002 (the effective date of AD 2002-20-07), do the actions required by paragraphs (f)(1) and (f)(2) of this AD, in accordance with a method approved by the Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA.

    (1) Install a new rudder control system that includes new components such as an aft torque tube, hydraulic actuators, and associated input control rods, and additional wiring throughout the airplane to support failure annunciation of the rudder control system in the flight deck. The system also must incorporate two separate inputs, each with an override mechanism, to two separate servo valves on the main rudder PCU; and an input to the standby PCU that also will include an override mechanism.

    (2) Make applicable changes to the adjacent systems to accommodate the new rudder control system.

    New Requirements of This AD

    For Certain Airplanes: Tests, Suspension of Certain Master Minimum Equipment Item, Replacements, Inspection, and Corrective Actions

    (g) For airplanes on which the actions required by paragraph (f) of this AD have been done before the effective date of this AD: Do the actions in paragraphs (g)(1), (g)(2), and (g)(3) of this AD, as applicable.

    (1) At the applicable times listed in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of the applicable service bulletin specified in Table 2 of this AD; except, where the service bulletin specifies a compliance time from the date on the service bulletin, this AD requires compliance within the specified compliance time after the effective date of this AD: Do the tests specified in Table 2 of this AD, until the installation required by paragraph (g)(3) of this AD has been done in accordance with the applicable service bulletin in Table 3 of this AD. Do all applicable corrective actions specified in Table 2 of this AD before further flight.

    Table 2.--Repetitive Tests

    In accordance with the For model--

    Identified as--

    Do--

    accomplishment instructions of--

    (i) 737-100, -200, and -200C Group 1,

    The ``Rudder Main Power Control Boeing Alert Service Bulletin series airplanes.

    Configuration 1 Unit Force Fight Test,'' the 737-27A1281, dated June 14, in the service ``Standby Rudder Actuator

  7. bulletin.

    Shutoff Valve Test,'' and any applicable corrective action. (ii) 737-300, -400, and -500 Group 2,

    The ``Rudder Main Power Control Boeing Alert Service Bulletin series airplanes.

    Configuration 1 Unit Force Fight Test,'' the 737-27A1281, dated June 14, in the service ``Standby Rudder Actuator

  8. bulletin.

    Shutoff Valve Test,'' and any applicable corrective action.

    [[Page 66479]]

    (iii) 737-600, -700, -700C, - Group 1,

    The ``Rudder Main Power Control Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 800, and -900 series

    Configuration 1 Unit Force Fight Monitor

    737-27A1280, dated May 25, airplanes.

    and Group 2, Test,'' the ``Operational Test 2005. Configurations of the Standby Hydraulic 1 and 2 in the Actuation System,'' and any service

    applicable corrective action. bulletin.

    (2) As of the effective date of this AD, do not use the Master Minimum Equipment Item 27-21, ``STBY RUD ON light,'' until the actions required by paragraph (g)(3) of this AD are done.

    (3) Within 24 months after the effective date of this AD, do the replacement(s) and inspection, as applicable, specified in Table 3 of this AD. Do all applicable corrective actions specified in Table 3 of this AD before further flight. Doing the applicable action(s) ends the requirements of paragraphs (g)(1) and (g)(2) of this AD.

    Table 3.--Replacement of Input Control Rods, Inspection, and Corrective Action, as Applicable

    Do the following For Model--

    Identified as--

    action(s)--

    In accordance with--

    (i) 737-100, -200, and -200C

    Groups 1 through 9, Replace both input control Part 2 of the series airplanes.

    Configuration 3 in rods of the main rudder Accomplishment the service bulletin. PCU with new input

    Instructions of Boeing control rods.

    Service Bulletin 737-27- 1252, Revision 3, dated May 12, 2006. (ii) 737-300, -400, and -500

    Groups 1 through 19, Replace both input control Part 2 of the series airplanes.

    Configuration 3 in rods of the main rudder Accomplishment the service bulletin. PCU with new input

    Instructions of Boeing control rods.

    Service Bulletin 737-27- 1255, Revision 3, dated May 10, 2006. (iii) 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, Groups 1 through 20, Replace both input control Part 2 of the and -900 series airplanes.

    Configuration 3 in rods of the main rudder Accomplishment the service bulletin. PCU with new input

    Instructions of Boeing control rods, inspect the Service Bulletin 737-27- input control rod of the 1253, Revision 3, dated standby rudder PCU to May 12, 2006. determine if part number (P/N) 251A3495-1 is installed, and any corrective action. (iv) 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, Group 1 in the

    Replace both input control The Accomplishment and -900 series airplanes.

    service bulletin. rods of the main rudder Instructions of Boeing PCU and the input control Alert Service Bulletin rod of the standby rudder 737-27A1279, dated June PCU with a new input

    20, 2006. control rod(s).

    For Certain Other Airplanes: Install New Rudder Control System per Service Information

    (h) For airplanes on which the actions required by paragraph (f) of this AD have not been done before the effective date of this AD: As of the effective date of this AD, use the applicable service bulletin specified in Table 4 of this AD to do the actions required by paragraph (f) of this AD at the time specified in that paragraph.

    Table 4.--Service Bulletins for Installation of New Rudder Control System

    Do the actions required by paragraph For model--

    Identified as-- (f) of this AD in accordance with--

    (1) 737-100, -200, and -200C Groups 1 through Part 1 of the series airplanes.

    9,

    Accomplishment Configurations 1 Instructions of and 2 in the Boeing Service service bulletin. Bulletin 737-27- 1252, Revision 3, dated May 12, 2006. (2) 737-300, -400, and -500 Groups 1 through Part 1 of the series airplanes.

    19,

    Accomplishment Configurations 1 Instructions of and 2 in the Boeing Service service bulletin. Bulletin 737-27- 1255, Revision 3, dated May 10, 2006. (3) 737-600, -700, -700C, - Groups 1 through Part 1 of the 800, and -900 series

    20,

    Accomplishment airplanes.

    Configurations 1 Instructions of and 2 in the Boeing Service service bulletin. Bulletin 737-27- 1253, Revision 3, dated May 12, 2006.

    (i) Before or concurrently with the requirements of paragraph (h) of this AD, do the actions in Table 5 of this AD.

    [[Page 66480]]

    Table 5.--Before/Concurrent Requirements

    In accordance with Before or concurrently with Do these actions-- the accomplishment the actions specified in--

    instructions of--

    (1) Paragraph (h)(1) of this (i) Remove the

    Boeing Service AD.

    rudder position Bulletin 737-22- sensor of the

    1042, Revision 1, automatic flight dated April 5, control system. 1985. (ii) Replace the Boeing 737 Service rudder feel and Bulletin 27-1026, centering assembly dated January 15, with a new all- 1971. mechanical unit. (iii) Install the Boeing Service rudder pressure Bulletin 737- reducer and yaw 27A1206, Revision damper coupler. 3, dated December 14, 2000. (iv) Install

    Boeing Service provisional wires Bulletin 737-27- for rudder system 1246, Revision 1, enhancement.

    dated February 21, 2002. (v) Replace the P5-3 Boeing Service panel with a new Bulletin 737-27- panel.

    1263, Revision 1, dated September 25, 2003. (vi) Replace the Smiths Aerospace input lever for the Service Bulletin auxiliary rudder 1150-27-05A, dated power control

    August 28, 2003. package with a new input lever. (2) Paragraph (h)(2) of this (i) Install

    Boeing Service AD.

    provisional wires Bulletin 737-27- for rudder system 1246, Revision 1, enhancement.

    dated February 21, 2002. (ii) Replace the P5- Boeing Service 3 panel with a new Bulletin 737-27- panel.

    1264, Revision 1, dated April 3, 2003. (iii) Install a new Boeing Service yaw damper coupler. Bulletin 737- 27A1206, Revision 3, dated December 14, 2000. (iv) Inspect the Boeing Service trailing edge beam Bulletin 737-55- on the vertical fin 1052, Revision 1, and rework if

    dated August 5, necessary.

  9. (v) Replace the Smiths Aerospace input lever for the Service Bulletin auxiliary rudder 1150-27-05A, dated power control

    August 28, 2003. package with a new input lever. (3) Paragraph (h)(3) of this (i) Install

    Boeing Service AD.

    provisional wires Bulletin 737-27- for rudder system 1247, Revision 1, enhancement.

    dated July 25, 2002. (ii) Replace the P5- Boeing Service 3 panel with a new Bulletin 737-27- panel.

    1262, dated December 19, 2002. (iii) Relocate the Boeing Alert Service wire bundle routing Bulletin 737- in the vertical 27A1239, dated stabilizer.

    January 11, 2001.

    Parts Installation

    (j) As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install an input control rod, P/N 251A3495-1, on any airplane.

    Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (k)(1) The Manager, Seattle ACO, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested in accordance with the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.

    (2) Before using any AMOC approved in accordance with Sec. 39.19 on any airplane to which the AMOC applies, notify the appropriate principal inspector in the FAA Flight Standards Certificate Holding District Office.

    (3) Except as provided by paragraph (j) of this AD: AMOCs approved previously in accordance with AD 2002-20-07 R1 are approved as AMOCs for the corresponding provisions of paragraphs (f) and (h) of this AD.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on November 3, 2006. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.

    [FR Doc. E6-19227 Filed 11-14-06; 8:45 am]

    BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

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