Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-17967 · Engine fuel & control
APEX Aircraft Airplanes
This AD applies to APEX Aircraft Models R 3000/160 airplanes, all serial numbers, certificated in any category.
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for APEX Aircraft Model R 3000/160 airplanes. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as small pieces of paint from the engine air intake box blocking the engine carburetor. We are issuing this AD to require actions to address the unsafe condition on these products.
Unless already done, do the following actions, as specified in paragraphs (f)(1) through (f)(4) of this AD:
(1) Within 110 hours time-in-service (TIS) after October 17, 2014 (the effective date of this AD) and repetitively thereafter at intervals not to exceed 110 hours TIS, accomplish a visual and tactile inspection of the engine air intake box (including the deflection flap) and the engine air ducting (including the area located downstream of the filter) following the Accomplishment Instructions section of CEAPR Mandatory Service Bulletin Number 161R3, dated September 6, 2012.
(2) If any paint damage such as bubbling, blistering, peeled off areas or paint detachment is found during any inspection required by paragraph (f)(1) of this AD, before further flight, replace each damaged part with an airworthy part following the Accomplishment Instructions section of CEAPR Mandatory Service Bulletin Number 161R3, dated September 6, 2012.
(3) Replacement of damaged parts on an airplane, as required by paragraph (f)(2) of this AD, does not constitute terminating action for the repetitive inspections required by paragraph (f)(1) of this AD for that airplane.
(4) As of October 17, 2014 (the effective date of this AD), do not install on any airplane a painted engine air intake box or repaired engine air ducting.
