British Gliding Association Aircraft Inspection
Recommended

Number:
039/01/2004

Issue:
1

Date: 26 January 2004

Subject:

Elevator control crank in fin – attachment nuts missing

Applicability:

Rolladen Schneider LS6, LS7 and LS8 series aircraft. All serial numbers including “Turbo” versions

Accomplishment: On receipt of inspection and at C of A

Reason:

Several reports (1 in the UK) of the elevator crank attachment nuts missing on the rear face of the fin after removal of the optional tail ballast weight holder.

Instructions:

Using a small mirror and torch (or endascope), move the rudder to full deflection and check that the 4 (2 left and 2 right) self locking nuts (M6) and large washers are present on the lower rear face of the fin just above the fuselage boom fairing. The nuts fit onto 4 threaded studs protruding from the rear face. (The elevator crank is not visible, as it is located on the forward face of the spar inside the fin and secured using the 4 threaded studs.) The 4 studs are also used to mount the optional tail ballast weight holder. Removal of the rudder is not required for the inspection The initial inspection may be completed by a BGA Pilot/owner if desired, if a suitable inspection equipment is available.
If the nuts and washers are found to be missing the aircraft must not be flown until replacements are fitted. See applicable Maintenance Manual for details. Rudder removal will be required. Replacements must be certified by a BGA inspector. Please report cases of missing nuts & washers to the BGA. The rudder refit will require a duplicate control inspection.

Approved By Jim Hammerton, Chief Technical Officer
Issued by - The British Gliding Association Ltd, Kimberley House, Vaughan Way, Leicester, LE1 4SE, U.K. Note: Mandatory inspections must be recorded in the aircraft log book, unless specified, and certified by an appropriately rated BGA inspector.
Optional inspections should be entered into the D.I. book or log book as appropriate. Optional inspections may be certified by a BGA Pilot. Alternative methods of compliance will be considered providing an equal level of safety is accomplished. Contact BGA for authorisation.