[Federal Register Volume 61, Number 112 (Monday, June 10, 1996)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 29279-29282]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 96-14383]



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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. 95-NM-10-AD; Amendment 39-9663; AD 96-12-20]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Lockheed Model 382, 382B, 382E, 382F, 
and 382G Series Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration, DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: This amendment supersedes an existing airworthiness directive 
(AD), applicable to certain Lockheed Model 382, 382B, 382E, 382F, and 
382G series airplanes, that currently requires visual inspections to 
detect loose, missing, or deformed fasteners in the upper truss mounts 
of certain engines, inspections to detect cracking in the associated 
tangs, and replacement of damaged parts. This amendment adds a 
requirement for repetitive ultrasonic inspections to detect cracking of 
the upper tangs and replacement of cracked parts. This amendment also 
provides for an optional terminating action for the

[[Page 29280]]

repetitive inspections, and revises the applicability of the rule to 
specify groupings of airplanes. This amendment is prompted by reports 
indicating that fatigue cracking of the tangs of the upper truss mount 
has been detected. The actions specified by this AD are intended to 
prevent multiple failures of the upper truss mounts due to problems 
associated with fatigue cracking, which could adversely affect the 
integrity of the engine mount structure.

DATES: Effective July 15, 1996.
    The incorporation by reference of Hercules Service Bulletin 382-71-
20, dated March 18, 1994, as listed in the regulations, is approved by 
the Director of the Federal Register as of July 15, 1996.
    The incorporation by reference of Lockheed Alert Service Bulletin 
A382-71-19/A82-687, dated December 23, 1993, as listed in the 
regulations, was approved previously by the Director of the Federal 
Register as of February 18, 1994 (59 FR 5078, February 3, 1994).

ADDRESSES: The service information referenced in this AD may be 
obtained from Lockheed Aeronautical Systems Support Company, Field 
Support Department, Dept. 693, Zone 0755, 2251 Lake Park Drive, Smyrna, 
Georgia 30080. This information may be examined at the Federal Aviation 
Administration (FAA), Transport Airplane Directorate, Rules Docket, 
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington; or at the FAA, Small 
Airplane Directorate, Atlanta Aircraft Certification Office, Campus 
Building, Suite 2-160, 1701 Columbia Avenue, College Park, Georgia; or 
at the Office of the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., 
suite 700, Washington, DC.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Thomas Peters, Aerospace Engineer, 
ACE-116A, Flight Test Branch, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate; Atlanta 
Aircraft Certification Office, Campus Building, Suite 2-160, 1701 
Columbia Avenue, College Park, Georgia 30337-2748; telephone (404) 305-
7367; fax (404) 305-7348.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: A proposal to amend part 39 of the Federal 
Aviation Regulations (14 CFR part 39) by superseding AD 94-03-03, 
amendment 39-8809 (59 FR 5078, February 3, 1994), which is applicable 
to certain Lockheed Model 382, 382B, 382E, 382F, and 382G series 
airplanes, was published in the Federal Register on May 16, 1995 (60 FR 
26005). That action proposed to supersede AD 94-03-03 to continue to 
require visual inspections to detect loose, missing, or deformed 
fasteners in the upper truss mounts of certain engines, inspections to 
detect cracking in the associated tangs, and replacement of damaged 
parts with new parts. The action also proposed to add a requirement for 
repetitive ultrasonic inspections to detect cracking of the upper tangs 
and replacement of cracked parts with certain new or serviceable parts. 
That action also proposed to provide for an optional terminating action 
for the repetitive inspections. Additionally, that action proposed to 
revise the applicability of the existing rule to specify appropriate 
groupings of airplanes subject to the rule.
    Interested persons have been afforded an opportunity to participate 
in the making of this amendment. Due consideration has been given to 
the comments received from the sole commenter.

Request to Revise Replacement Requirements for Cracked Upper Tang

    The commenter, the manufacturer, requests that paragraph (a)(2) of 
the proposed rule be revised to change the replacement requirements for 
the upper tang to specify that, if cracking is found, the operator must 
replace the truss mount, not the upper tang. The commenter notes that 
the upper tang is an integral part of the truss mount and it cannot be 
replaced unless the truss mount itself is replaced.
    The FAA concurs. The manufacturer has confirmed that it is 
impossible to replace the upper tang without replacing the truss mount. 
From this, the FAA assumes that operators complying with AD 94-03-03 
(which contained the requirement to replace the upper tang) would have 
replaced the truss mount, and not just the upper tang, if replacement 
was necessary in accordance with paragraph (a)(2) of that AD. In 
consideration of these factors, the FAA has revised paragraph (a)(2) of 
this final rule to clarify that the truss mount must be replaced if 
cracking is found in the upper tang.

Request to Prohibit Installation of Previously Used Truss Mounts

    The commenter further requests that references to replacement with 
a ``serviceable'' truss mount assembly be deleted from the proposal. 
The commenter states that previously-used truss mounts would have 
existing fastener holes and, therefore, could not be used as a 
replacement part, since they would not be able to be installed 
physically on the airplane.
    The FAA concurs. Since a previously-used truss mount cannot be 
installed on an airplane because of the existing fastener holes, the 
FAA has deleted this language from paragraphs (a) and (d) of the final 
rule.

Request to Revise Reference to Structural Repair Manual

    The commenter also requests that paragraphs (d)(1) and (d)(2) of 
the proposed rule, which require replacement of the truss mount 
assembly, be revised to refer to the Structural Repair Manual, 
``Document SMP * * *,'' rather than ``Document SRM * * *'' The 
commenter states that instructions for replacing the truss mounts are 
described in Document SMP.
    The FAA acknowledges that the commenter is correct, and has revised 
this reference in this final rule. Additionally, the FAA has corrected 
the number of that particular document to read ``SMP 583''

Request to Delete Prohibition of Future Installation of Certain 
Truss Mounts

    The commenter requests that paragraph (e) of the proposed rule be 
deleted. That paragraph would prohibit the installation of certain 
part-numbered outboard and inboard engine truss mounts on any airplane 
unless the truss mount had been inspected in accordance with the SRM. 
That paragraph is meant to preclude the possibility of those truss 
mounts being entered into service without having the necessary 
inspection performed. However, the commenter points out three 
considerations to support its request to delete the proposed 
requirement:
    1. First, the intent of the inspection required by the AD is to 
detect fatigue damage that is associated with the fastener holes in the 
truss mounts.
    2. Second, a truss mount does not have fastener holes in it until 
it is installed on the airplane; therefore, a new truss mount would not 
need to be inspected for fatigue damage, since it would not have 
accumulated enough time for such damage to occur.
    3. Third, if the final rule does not permit the installation of 
used (``serviceable'') truss mounts, then only new truss mounts--on 
which fatigue would not be a problem--would be permitted to be 
installed.
    For the reasons specified by the commenter, and in light of the 
previously discussed changes made to this final rule, the FAA concurs 
that proposed paragraph (e) is unnecessary. The FAA has deleted it from 
the final rule.

Conclusion

    After careful review of the available data, including the comments 
noted

[[Page 29281]]

above, the FAA has determined that air safety and the public interest 
require the adoption of the rule with the changes previously described. 
The FAA has determined that these changes will neither increase the 
economic burden on any operator nor increase the scope of the AD.

Cost Impact

    There are approximately 112 Lockheed Model 382, 382B, 382E, 382F, 
and 382G series airplanes of the affected design in the worldwide 
fleet. The FAA estimates that 18 airplanes of U.S. registry will be 
affected by this AD.
    Accomplishment of the visual inspections that were required by AD 
94-03-03 and retained in this AD, take approximately 10 work hours per 
airplane, at an average labor rate of $60 per work hour. Based on these 
figures, the total cost impact of those inspections on U.S. operators 
is estimated to be $10,800, or $600 per airplane, per inspection cycle.
    Accomplishment of the ultrasonic inspections that are added by this 
new AD will take approximately 6 work hours per airplane, at an average 
labor rate of $60 per work hour. Based on these figures, the total cost 
impact of the inspections on U.S. operators is estimated to be $6,480, 
or $360 per airplane, per inspection cycle.
    The cost impact figures discussed above are based on assumptions 
that no operator has yet accomplished any of the requirements of this 
AD action, and that no operator would accomplish those actions in the 
future if this AD were not adopted. However, it is reasonable to assume 
that operators currently subject to the requirements of AD 94-03-03 
have already implemented the repetitive visual inspections required by 
that AD.
    Should an operator elect to accomplish the optional terminating 
action that is provided by this AD action, it would take approximately 
60 work hours per airplane to accomplish it, at an average labor rate 
of $60 per work hour. The cost of required parts would be approximately 
$17,000 per airplane. Based on these figures, the cost impact of the 
optional terminating action would be $20,600 per airplane.

Regulatory Impact

    The regulations adopted herein will not have substantial direct 
effects 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. Therefore, in 
accordance with Executive Order 12612, it is determined that this final 
rule does not have sufficient federalism implications to warrant the 
preparation of a Federalism Assessment.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this action (1) is 
not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 12866; 
(2) is not a ``significant rule'' under DOT Regulatory Policies and 
Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and (3) 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. A final evaluation has been prepared for this action 
and it is contained in the Rules Docket. A copy of it may be obtained 
from the Rules Docket at the location provided under the caption 
ADDRESSES.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by 
reference, Safety.

Adoption of the Amendment

    Accordingly, pursuant to the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the Federal Aviation Administration amends part 39 of 
the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR part 39) as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

    Authority: 49 USC 106(g), 40113, 44701.


Sec. 39.13  [Amended]

    2. Section 39.13 is amended by removing amendment 39-8809 (59 FR 
5078, February 3, 1994), and by adding a new airworthiness directive 
(AD), amendment 39-9663, to read as follows:

96-12-20  Lockheed Aeronautical Systems Company: Amendment 39-9663. 
Docket 95-NM-10-AD. Supersedes AD 94-03-03, amendment 39-8809.

    Applicability: Model 382, 382B, 382E, 382F, and 382G series 
airplanes having serial numbers 3946 through 4512 inclusive, on 
which the outer wings have been replaced in accordance with 
Manufacturing End Product (MEP) 12R/13R or MEP 9T/10T; and Model 
382E and Model 382G serial airplanes having serial numbers 4561 
through 5225 inclusive; certificated in any category.

    Note 1: This AD applies to each airplane identified in the 
preceding applicability provision, regardless of whether it has been 
otherwise modified, altered, or repaired in the area subject to the 
requirements of this AD. For airplanes that have been modified, 
altered, or repaired so that the performance of the requirements of 
this AD is affected, the owner/operator must request approval for an 
alternative method of compliance in accordance with paragraph (e) of 
this AD. The request should include an assessment of the effect of 
the modification, alteration, or repair on the unsafe condition 
addressed by this AD; and, if the unsafe condition has not been 
eliminated, the request should include specific proposed actions to 
address it.

    Compliance: Required as indicated, unless accomplished 
previously.
    To prevent multiple failures of the upper truss mounts, which 
could adversely affect the integrity of the engine mount structure, 
accomplish the following:
    (a) Prior to the accumulation of 15,000 total hours time-in-
service since wing replacement (for Model 382, 382B, 382E, and 382F 
series airplanes on which the outer wings have been replaced in 
accordance with MEP 12R/13R or MEP 9T/10T); or prior to the 
accumulation of 15,000 total hours time-in-service (for Model 382G 
series airplanes); or within 30 days after February 18, 1994 (the 
effective date of AD 94-03-03, amendment 39-8809), whichever occurs 
later: Accomplish the requirements of paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2) 
of this AD. Repeat the specified inspections thereafter at intervals 
not to exceed 300 hours time-in-service or 100 landings, whichever 
occurs later, until the requirements of paragraph (b) of this AD are 
accomplished.
    (1) Perform a general visual inspection to detect loose, 
missing, or deformed fasteners on the inboard and outboard upper 
truss mounts of the No. 1 and No. 4 (left and right outboard) 
engines, in accordance with Lockheed Alert Service Bulletin A382-71-
19/A82-687, dated December 23, 1993. If any loose, missing, or 
deformed fastener is found, prior to further flight, replace it in 
accordance with Hercules Structural Repair Manual (SRM), Document 
Number SMP 583.
    (2) Perform a general visual inspection to detect cracking of 
the truss mount upper tangs of the No. 1 and No. 4 engine truss 
mounts in accordance with Lockheed Alert Service Bulletin A382-71-
19/A82-687, dated December 23, 1993. If cracking is detected in any 
truss mount upper tang, prior to further flight, replace it with a 
new engine truss mount in accordance with Hercules SRM, Document 
Number SMP 583, or in accordance with a method approved by the 
Manager, Atlanta Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA, Small 
Airplane Directorate.
    (b) Perform an ultrasonic inspection to detect cracking of the 
upper tangs of the No. 1 outboard and the No. 4 inboard engine truss 
mounts, in accordance with Hercules Service Bulletin 382-71-20, 
dated March 18, 1994, at the time specified in paragraph (b)(1) or 
(b)(2) of this AD, as applicable. Accomplishment of this inspection 
terminates the inspections required by paragraph (a) of this AD.
    (1) For Model 382, 382B, 382E, 382F, and 382G series airplanes 
on which the outer wings have been replaced in accordance with MEP 
12R/13R or MEP 9T/10T: Accomplish the inspection at the earlier of 
the times specified in paragraphs (b)(1)(i) and (b)(1)(ii) of this 
AD.
    (i) Prior to the accumulation of 15,000 total hours time-in-
service since replacement of the outer wings, or within 90 days 
after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later. Or

[[Page 29282]]

    (ii) Within 300 hours time-in-service or 100 landings, whichever 
occurs later, following the immediately preceding visual inspection 
accomplished in accordance with paragraph (a) of this AD.
    (2) For Model 382E and 382G series airplanes having serial 
number 4561 through 5225 inclusive, other than those identified in 
paragraph (b)(1) of this AD: Accomplish the inspection at the 
earlier of the times specified in paragraphs (b)(2)(i) and 
(b)(2)(ii) of this AD.
    (i) Prior to the accumulation of 15,000 total hours time-in-
service, or within 90 days after the effective date of this AD, 
whichever occurs later. Or
    (ii) Within 300 hours time-in-service or 100 landings, whichever 
occurs later, following the immediately preceding visual inspection 
accomplished in accordance with paragraph (a) of this AD.
    (c) If no cracking is detected during the inspection required by 
paragraph (b) of this AD, repeat the inspection thereafter at 
intervals not to exceed 5,200 hours time-in-service.
    (d) If any cracking is detected during the inspection required 
by paragraph (b) of this AD: Prior to further flight, accomplish the 
requirements of either paragraph (d)(1) or (d)(2) of this AD.
    (1) Replace the truss mount assembly with a new assembly having 
part number 360013-15, -19, or -23 (for the outboard truss mounts of 
the No. 1 engine), or part number 360017-15, -19, or -23 (for the 
inboard truss mounts of the No. 4 engine), as applicable, in 
accordance with Hercules Structural Repair Manual (SRM), Document 
Number SMP 583. Prior to the accumulation of 15,000 hours time-in-
service after installation of the engine truss mount assembly, 
perform an ultrasonic inspection as specified in paragraph (b) of 
this AD. Repeat that inspection thereafter at intervals not to 
exceed 5,200 hours time-in-service. Or
    (2) Replace the truss mount assembly with part number 360013-31 
or subsequent (for the truss mounts in the No. 1 outboard engine), 
or part number 360017-31 or subsequent (for the truss mounts of the 
No. 4 inboard engine), as applicable, in accordance with SMP 583. 
Such replacement constitutes terminating action for the requirements 
of this AD.
    (e) An alternative method of compliance or adjustment of the 
compliance time that provides an acceptable level of safety may be 
used if approved by the Manager, Atlanta ACO. Operators shall submit 
their requests through an appropriate FAA Principal Maintenance 
Inspector, who may add comments and then send it to the Manager, 
Atlanta ACO.

    Note 2: Information concerning the existence of approved 
alternative methods of compliance with this AD, if any, may be 
obtained from the Manager, Atlanta ACO.

    (f) Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with 
sections 21.197 and 21.199 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 
CFR 21.197 and 21.199) to operate the airplane to a location where 
the requirements of this AD can be accomplished.
    (g) The ultrasonic inspection shall be done in accordance with 
Hercules Service Bulletin 382-71-20, dated March 18, 1994. This 
incorporation by reference was approved by the Director of the 
Federal Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 
51. The general visual inspections shall be done in accordance with 
Lockheed Alert Service Bulletin A382-71-19/A82-687, dated December 
23, 1993. The incorporation by reference of this document was 
approved previously by the Director of the Federal Register, in 
accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51, as of February 
18, 1994 (59 FR 5078, February 3, 1994). Copies may be obtained from 
Lockheed Aeronautical Systems Support Company, Field Support 
Department, Dept. 693, Zone 0755, 2251 Lake Park Drive, Smyrna, 
Georgia 30080. Copies may be inspected at the FAA, Transport 
Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington; or 
at the FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, Atlanta Aircraft 
Certification Office, Campus Building, Suite 2-160, 1701 Columbia 
Avenue, College Park, Georgia; or at the Office of the Federal 
Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, Washington, DC.
    (h) This amendment becomes effective on July 15, 1996.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 3, 1996.
Darrell M. Pederson,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 96-14383 Filed 6-7-96; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-U