Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-14749 · Airbus Model A340-541 and -642 Airplanes
Airbus Model A340-541 and -642 Airplanes
This AD applies to Airbus Model A340-541 and -642 airplanes, certificated in any category; equipped with a ram air turbine (RAT) module, Model ERPS33T, part number (P/N) 772722D or 772722E; serial numbers 0001 through 0024 inclusive, and 0101 through 0166 inclusive, having a Parker hydraulic pump with P/N 4217701 or 4217702.
The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A340-541 and -642 airplanes. This AD requires a one-time inspection of the anti-stall valve sleeve of the ram air turbine (RAT) for proper installation, determining the part number of the modification plate on the hydraulic pump of the RAT, and follow-on corrective actions if necessary. This AD results from reports of failure of the anti-stall valve on the hydraulic pump of the RAT during scheduled ground tests. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the RAT hydraulic pump to supply adequate pressure to activate the RAT, and consequent loss of the RAT as a source of hydraulic and electrical power in an emergency situation.
You are responsible for having the actions required by this AD performed within the compliance times specified, unless the actions have already been done.
Within 11 months after the effective date of this AD: Do a one-time general visual inspection of the anti-stall valve sleeve of the RAT for proper installation, and determine the P/N of the modification plate on the hydraulic pump of the RAT, by doing all applicable actions, including all applicable follow-on corrective actions, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A340-29-5010, dated October 10, 2005. All corrective actions must be done before further flight. Although the service bulletin specifies returning any removed RAT to Hamilton Sundstrand, this AD does not require that action.
Note 1: For the purposes of this AD, a general visual inspection is: “A visual examination of an interior or exterior area, installation, or assembly to detect obvious damage, failure, or irregularity. This level of inspection is made from within touching distance unless otherwise specified. A mirror may be necessary to enhance visual access to all exposed surfaces in the inspection area. This level of inspection is made under normally available lighting conditions such as daylight, hangar lighting, flashlight, or droplight and may require removal or opening of access panels or doors. Stands, ladders, or platforms may be required to gain proximity to the area being checked.”
Note 2: The Airbus service bulletin refers to Hamilton Sundstrand Service Bulletin ERPS33T-29-3, dated August 1, 2005, as an additional source of service information for accomplishing the actions required by paragraph (f) of this AD.
