AD 92-07-07 ACTIVE

92-07-07 EIRIAVION: Amendment 39-8203. Docket No. 91-CE-35-AD.

Applicability: Models PIK-20 and PIK-20B sailplanes (all serial numbers) that are equipped with lead mass balance strips on the flaps and ailerons, certificated in any category.

Compliance: Required within the next 25 hours time-in-service (TIS) after the effective date of this AD, unless already accomplished, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 500 hours TIS.

To prevent interference to the ailerons that could result in loss of control of the sailplane, accomplish the following:

(a) Remove the flaps and ailerons and inspect the lead mass balance strips for cracks using a 10-power magnifying glass.

NOTE 1: Particular attention should be given to the attachment rivets during the inspections specified in paragraph (a) of this AD.

NOTE 2: If the sailplane is not equipped with mass balance strips on the flaps and ailerons, then no further action is required by this AD.

(b) If cracking is detected in accordance with the inspections required by paragraph (a) of this AD, prior to further flight, fabricate and replace the mass balance strips in accordance with the following:

(1) Utilize strips made of malleable lead (not brittle or granular) that are the same weight and dimensions.

(2) Attach the strips at the same rivet holes as the cracked one and bond the lead in place with epoxy resin.

(3) Keep the counter bore holes to the minimum depth in accordance with the applicable service manual.

(4) Install washers to the rivets on the glass-reinforced plastic face.

(5) Do not increase the diameter of any rivet.

(6) Ensure that the final mass balance of each flap and aileron complies with the applicable service manual.

(c) Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with FAR 21.197 and 21.199 to operate the sailplane to a location where the requirements of this AD can be accomplished.

(d) An alternative method of compliance or adjustment of the compliance time that provides an equivalent level of safety may be approved by the Manager, Brussels Aircraft Certification Staff, Europe, Africa, Middle East office, FAA, c/o American Embassy, 1000 Brussels, Belgium. The request should be forwarded through an FAA Maintenance Inspector, who may add comments and then send it to the Manager, Brussels Aircraft Certification Staff.

(e) All persons affected by this directive may examine information that is related to this AD upon request to the FAA, Central Region, Office of the Assistant Chief Counsel, Room 1558, 601 E. 12th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64106.

(f) This amendment (39-8203, AD 92-07-07) becomes effective on April 30, 1992.