Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-15144 · Boeing Model 737-100, -200, -200C, -300, -400, and -500 Series Airplanes
Boeing Model 737-100, -200, -200C, -300, -400, and -500 Series Airplanes
This AD applies to all Boeing Model 737-100, -200, -200C, -300, -400, and -500 series airplanes; certificated in any category.
The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Boeing Model 737-100, -200, -200C, -300, -400, and -500 series airplanes. This AD requires repetitive inspections for discrepancies of the elevator tab control rod assemblies and/or damage to the surrounding structure, and related corrective action. This AD results from reports indicating loose jam nuts and/or thread wear at the rod ends on the elevator tab control rod assembly. We are issuing this AD to find and fix discrepancies of the elevator tab control rod assembly, which could result in excessive freeplay in the elevator tab control rods. Such freeplay could cause loss of both load paths, subsequent elevator tab flutter, and consequent reduced structural integrity and loss of controllability of the airplane.
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 4,500 flight cycles or 6,000 flight hours after the effective date of this AD, whichever is first: Do a detailed inspection for discrepancies of the inspection putty of the elevator tab control rod assemblies and/or damage to the surrounding structure, by doing all the actions, including all applicable related corrective actions, as specified in paragraph 3.B. of the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-27A1266, Revision 1, dated January 2, 2007. Do all applicable related corrective actions before further flight, in accordance with the service bulletin. Repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals not to exceed 4,500 flight cycles or 6,000 flight hours, whichever is first. Actions accomplished before the effective date of this AD in accordance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-27A1266, dated September 18, 2003, are considered acceptable for compliance with the corresponding actions specified in this paragraph.
Note 1: For the purposes of this AD, a detailed inspection is: “An intensive examination of a specific item, installation, or assembly to detect damage, failure, or irregularity. Available lighting is normally supplemented with a direct source of good lighting at an intensity deemed appropriate. Inspection aids such as mirror, magnifying lenses, etc., may be necessary. Surface cleaning and elaborate procedures may be required.”
