AD/PC-12/52 Elevator Control Stick-Pusher Servo-Cable Tension and Cable Clamp Bolts (Cth)

AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVE

For the reasons set out in the background section, the CASA delegate whose signature appears below issues the following Airworthiness Directive (AD) under subregulation 39.001(1) of CASR 1998.  The AD requires that the action set out in the requirement section (being action that the delegate considers necessary to correct the unsafe condition) be taken in relation to the aircraft or aeronautical product mentioned in the applicability section: (a) in the circumstances mentioned in the requirement section; and (b) in accordance with the instructions set out in the requirement section; and (c) at the time mentioned in the compliance section.

Pilatus PC-12 Series Aeroplanes

AD/PC-12/52 Elevator Control Stick-Pusher Servo-Cable Tension and Cable Clamp Bolts 5/2008 DM

Applicability:

Pilatus Aircraft Ltd PC-12, PC-12/45 and PC-12/47 aircraft, Manufacturer Serial Number (MSN) 101 up to MSN 888 inclusive, except MSN 545.

Requirement:

1.    Check the stickpusher servo-cables for correct installation, position and tension in accordance with paragraph 3.B.(1) of Pilatus PC-12 Service Bulletin (SB) No. 27-018 or later NAA approved revision.

2.    If during the check required by Requirement 1 of this AD, any incorrectly installed or positioned stick-pusher servo-cables are found, adjust the stick-pusher servo-cables tension in accordance paragraph 3.B.(2) of Pilatus PC-12 SB No. 27-018 or later NAA approved revision.

3.    If during the check required by Requirement 1 of this AD, any stick-pusher servo-cables are found with incorrect tension and/or indications that the cables have moved in the cable clamps, replace the affected parts in accordance with paragraph 3.B.(4) of Pilatus PC-12 SB No. 27-018 or later NAA approved revision.

4.    If during the check required by Requirement 1 of this AD, no signs are detected that the stick-pusher servo-cables have moved in the cable clamps, replace the affected parts in accordance with paragraph 3.B.(5) of Pilatus PC-12 SB No. 27-018 or later NAA approved revision.

Note:  EASA AD 2008-0047 dated 28 February 2008 refers.

Compliance:

1.    Within the next 20 Flight Hours (FH) but not later than 7 April 2008, whichever occurs first after the effective date of this AD, unless previously accomplished.

2.    Before further flight after the effective date of this AD.

3.    Before further flight after the effective date of this AD.

4.    Before further flight after the effective date of this AD.

This Airworthiness Directive becomes effective on 7 March 2008.

Background: Some operators have reported occurrences where the rear stick-pusher cable clamp shifted forward on the elevator cable.  This condition, if not corrected, may reduce the effectiveness of the stick-pusher and/or limit elevator control movement.  This AD requires the inspection of the stick-pusher servo-cables for correct installation, position and tension and replacement of discrepant parts

David Punshon
Delegate of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority

3 March 2008