[Federal Register Volume 60, Number 113 (Tuesday, June 13, 1995)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 31075-31077]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 95-14496]



-----------------------------------------------------------------------


DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. 93-ANE-44; Amendment 39-9271; AD 94-01-03 R2]


Airworthiness Directives; Teledyne Continental Motors (Formerly 
Bendix) S-20, S-200, S-600, and S-1200 Series Magnetos

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration, DOT.

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: This amendment revises an existing airworthiness directive 
(AD), applicable to Teledyne Continental Motors (TCM) (formerly Bendix) 
S-20, S-200, S-600, and S-1200 series magnetos, that currently requires 
replacing Bendix ignition coils and rotating magnets, regardless of 
total time in service (TIS), with improved TCM ignition coils, rotating 
magnets and marking magnetos to indicate compliance, except for the S-
1200 series magnetos on which the AD requires replacing only the 
ignition coils as that series magneto already incorporates rotating 
magnets with the improved TCM design. This amendment removes several 
notes after the applicability paragraph and inserts these as paragraphs 
into the applicability itself and into the compliance section to 
clarify that these actions are mandatory. In addition, this amendment 
allows installation of replacement serviceable Parts Manufacturer 
Approval (PMA) parts in addition to TCM parts. Also, this amendment 
clarifies that Bendix magnetos replaced with Slick magnetos satisfy the 
requirements of the AD, and that operators must perform the 
requirements of the AD on magnetos with Bendix magneto data plates that 
have been replaced with an overhaul facility's data plate. This 
amendment is prompted by comments that request clarification of the 
compliance notes and by the request to install replacement serviceable 
PMA parts. The actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent 
magneto failure and subsequent engine failure.

DATES: Effective on June 28, 1995.
    The incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in 
the regulations was previously approved by the Director of the Federal 
Register as of September 6, 1994 (59 FR 43029, August 22, 1994).
    Comments for inclusion in the Rules Docket must be received on or 
before August 14, 1995.

ADDRESSES: Submit comments in triplicate to the Federal Aviation 
Administration (FAA), New England Region, Office of the Assistant Chief 
Counsel, Attention: Rules Docket No. 93-ANE-44, 12 New England 
Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803-5299.
    The service information referenced in this AD may be obtained from 
Teledyne Continental Motors, P.O. Box 90, Mobile, AL 36601; telephone 
(205) 438-3411. This information may be examined at the FAA, New 
England Region, Office of the Assistant Chief Counsel, 12 New England 
Executive Park, Burlington, MA; or at the Office of the Federal 
Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, Washington, DC.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jerry Robinette, Aerospace Engineer, 
Atlanta Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 
Campus Building, 1701 Columbia Ave., Suite S-160, College Park, GA 
30337-2748; telephone (404) 305-7371; fax (404) 305-7348.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: On December 29, 1993, the Federal Aviation 
Administration (FAA) issued airworthiness directive (AD) 94-01-03, 
Amendment 39-8785 (59 FR 4555, February 1, 1994), to require replacing 
certain Bendix ignition coils and rotating magnets, regardless of time 
in service (TIS), with improved serviceable Teledyne Continental Motors 
(TCM) ignition coils and rotating magnets at either the next 100-hour 
inspection, the next annual inspection, the next progressive 
inspection, or the next 100 hours TIS after the effective date of the 
AD, whichever occurs first. For S-1200 series magnetos, the AD requires 
replacing only the ignition coils as the rotating magnets on that 
series magneto already incorporates the improved TCM design. 
Additionally, the AD requires re-marking magnetos to indicate 
compliance. That action was prompted by reports of accidents caused by 
failures of magnetos incorporating older Bendix components that had not 
been replaced in accordance with superseded AD 73-07-04, Amendment 39-
1731 (38 FR 27600, October 5, 1973). That condition, if not corrected, 
could result in magneto failure and subsequent engine failure.
    On August 11, 1994, the FAA issued AD 94-17-11, Amendment 39-9006 
(59 FR 43029, August 22, 1994), that revises AD 94-01-03, and notes 
that an error in [[Page 31076]] the serial number listing in TCM 
Service Bulletin (SB) No. 637, dated December 1992, resulted in too 
many affected magnetos requiring AD compliance. The AD applies only to 
certain magnetos manufactured by Bendix in Sidney, New York, and not to 
any Bendix magnetos built in either Jacksonville, Florida, or Atlanta, 
Georgia. In addition, the S-600 series magnetos require replacement of 
only the rotating magnets and not the ignition coils. Finally, the FAA 
received reports that there is some confusion as to how the S-20, S-
200, S-600, and S-1200 series magnetos are referenced in the TCM SB and 
the AD and clarified the applicability paragraph by adding additional 
identification information.
    On November 3, 1994, the FAA issued a correction to Docket No. 93-
ANE-44, Amendment 39-9006 (59 FR 55955, November 10, 1994), which 
changes the AD number to AD 94-01-03 R1, as it was a revision to the 
previous AD and should not have been assigned a new AD number.
    Since the issuance of that AD, the FAA received comments requesting 
clarification of the compliance notes and the option of installing 
replacement serviceable Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA) parts.
    The FAA has reviewed and approved the technical contents of TCM 
Mandatory Service Bulletin (MSB) No. MSB644, dated April 4, 1994, that 
describes procedures for replacing certain Bendix ignition coils and 
rotating magnets with improved serviceable TCM ignition coils and 
rotating magnets and marking magnetos to indicate compliance with this 
MSB.
    Since an unsafe condition has been identified that is likely to 
exist or develop on other products of this same type design, this AD 
revises AD 94-01-03 R1 to insert the text of several notes appearing 
after the applicability paragraph as compliance paragraphs to clarify 
that these actions are mandatory. In addition, this amendment allows 
installation of replacement serviceable PMA parts in addition to TCM 
parts. Also, this amendment clarifies that Bendix magnetos replaced 
with Slick magnetos satisfy the requirements of this AD, and that 
operators must perform the requirements of this AD on magnetos with 
Bendix magneto data plates that have been replaced with an overhaul 
facility's data plate. The actions are required to be accomplished in 
accordance with the MSB described previously.
    Since a situation exists that requires the immediate adoption of 
this regulation, it is found that notice and opportunity for prior 
public comment hereon are impracticable, and that good cause exists for 
making this amendment effective in less than 30 days.

Comments Invited

    Although this action is in the form of a final rule that involves 
requirements affecting flight safety and, thus, was not preceded by 
notice and an opportunity for public comment, comments are invited on 
this rule. Interested persons are invited to comment on this rule by 
submitting such written data, views, or arguments as they may desire. 
Communications should identify the Rules Docket number and be submitted 
in triplicate to the address specified under the caption ADDRESSES. All 
communications received on or before the closing date for comments will 
be considered, and this rule may be amended in light of the comments 
received. Factual information that supports the commenter's ideas and 
suggestions is extremely helpful in evaluating the effectiveness of the 
AD action and determining whether additional rulemaking action would be 
needed.
    Comments are specifically invited on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of the rule that might 
suggest a need to modify the rule. All comments submitted will be 
available, both before and after the closing date for comments, in the 
Rules Docket for examination by interested persons. A report that 
summarizes each FAA-public contact concerned with the substance of this 
AD will be filed in the Rules Docket.
    Commenters wishing the FAA to acknowledge receipt of their comments 
submitted in response to this notice must submit a self-addressed, 
stamped postcard on which the following statement is made: ``Comments 
to Docket Number 93--ANE-44.'' The postcard will be date stamped and 
returned to the commenter.
    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.
    The FAA has determined that this regulation is an emergency 
regulation that must be issued immediately to correct an unsafe 
condition in aircraft, and is not a ``significant regulatory action'' 
under Executive Order 12866. It has been determined further that this 
action involves an emergency regulation under DOT Regulatory Policies 
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979). If it is determined 
that this emergency regulation otherwise would be significant under DOT 
Regulatory Policies and Procedures, a final regulatory evaluation will 
be prepared and placed in the Rules Docket. A copy of it, if filed, 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 U.S.C. App. 1354(a), 1421 and 1423; 49 U.S.C. 
106(g); and 14 CFR 11.89.

Sec. 39.13  [Amended]

    2. Section 39.13 is amended by removing Amendment 39--9006 (59 FR 
43029, August 22, 1994), corrected (59 FR 55955, November 10, 1994), 
and by adding a new airworthiness directive, Amendment 39-9271, to read 
as follows:

94-01-03  R2 Teledyne Continental Motors: Amendment 39--9271. Docket 
93-ANE-44. Revises AD 94-01-03 R1, Amendment 39-9006.

    Applicability: Teledyne Continental Motors (TCM), formerly 
Bendix magnetos:
    S-20, S-200, and S-600 series magnetos with red or black Bendix 
(not TCM) data plates having serial numbers (S/N's): lower than 
2000000 without any letter prefix; or S/N's lower than A16058 having 
the letter ``A'' prefix.
    S-20, S-200, and S-600 series magnetos with blue Bendix (not 
TCM) data plates marked ``REMANUFACTURED'' having S/N's lower than 
901001.
    S-1200 series magnetos with red Bendix (not TCM) data plates 
having S/N's: lower than 2000000 without any letter prefix; or S/N's 
lower than A132844 having the letter ``A'' prefix.
    S-1200 series magnetos with blue Bendix (not TCM) data plates 
marked ``REMANUFACTURED'' having S/N's lower than 901001.
    These magnetos are installed on but not limited to reciprocating 
engine powered aircraft manufactured by Beech, Cessna, Maule, 
Mooney, and Piper.

    [[Page 31077]] Note 1: The FAA has received reports of some 
confusion as to what is meant by S-20, S-200, S-600, and S-1200 
series magnetos as referenced in TCM Mandatory Service Bulletin 
(MSB) No. MSB644, dated April 4, 1994, and this AD. A typical 
example is S6RN-25, where the S designates single type ignition 
unit, the 6 designates the number of engine cylinders, the R 
designates right hand rotation, the N is the manufacturer designator 
(this did not change when TCM purchased the Bendix magneto product 
line), and the number after the dash indicates the series (a -25 is 
a S-20 series magneto, while a -1225 is a S-1200 series magneto).

    Note 2: This AD applies to each magneto identified in the 
preceding applicability provision, regardless of whether it has been 
modified, altered, or repaired in the area subject to the 
requirements of this AD. For magnetos that have been modified, 
altered, or repaired so that the performance of the requirements of 
this AD is affected, the owner/operator must use the authority 
provided in paragraph (k) to request approval from the FAA. This 
approval may address either no action, if the current configuration 
eliminates the unsafe condition, or different actions necessary to 
address the unsafe condition described in this AD. Such a request 
should include an assessment of the effect of the changed 
configuration on the unsafe condition addressed by this AD. In no 
case does the presence of any modification, alteration, or repair 
remove any magneto from the applicability of this AD.

    Compliance: Required as indicated, unless accomplished 
previously.
    To prevent magneto failure and subsequent engine failure, 
accomplish the following:
    (a) No action is required for those magnetos in compliance with 
AD 94-01-03 or 94-01-03 R1.
    (b) An optional method of compliance with this AD is to replace 
the Bendix magnetos with Slick magnetos where FAA approval has been 
granted for that application.
    (c) If a Bendix magneto data plate has been replaced with an 
overhaul facility's data plate, this AD is still applicable to that 
magneto since the magneto is a Bendix magneto.
    (d) Yellow Bendix or TCM service spare data plates may have been 
installed during a field overhaul; use model and S/N to determine 
applicability.
    (e) Magnetos built by Bendix in Jacksonville, Florida, and 
Magnetos built by TCM in Atlanta, Georgia, as indicated on the data 
plate, are not affected by this AD.
    (f) The paint on some early data plates may have been 
obliterated and the data plate will appear silver in color; use 
model and serial number to determine applicability.
    (g) For Bendix S-20 and S-200 series magnetos, replace Bendix 
ignition coils and rotating magnets identified in the Detailed 
Instructions of TCM MSB No. MSB644, dated April 4, 1994, with 
serviceable TCM or Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA) ignition coils 
and rotating magnets at the next 100 hour inspection, the next 
annual inspection, the next progressive inspection, or the next 100 
hours time in service (TIS) after the effective date of this AD, 
whichever occurs first.
    (h) For the Bendix S-600 series magnetos, replace Bendix 
rotating magnets identified in the Detailed Instructions of TCM MSB 
No. MSB644, dated April 4, 1994, with serviceable TCM or PMA 
rotating magnets at the next 100 hour inspection, the next annual 
inspection, the next progressive inspection, or the next 100 hours 
TIS after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs first.

    Note: The ignition coils on the S-600 series magnetos already 
incorporate the improved design.

    (i) For the Bendix S-1200 series magneto, replace Bendix 
ignition coils identified in the Detailed Instructions of TCM MSB 
No. MSB644, dated April 4, 1994, with serviceable TCM or PMA 
ignition coils at the next 100 hour inspection, the next annual 
inspection, the next progressive inspection, or the next 100 hours 
TIS after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs first.

    Note: The rotating magnets on the S-1200 series magnetos already 
incorporate the improved design.

    (j) After compliance with paragraphs (d), (e), or (f) of this 
AD, as applicable, and prior to further flight, mark the magneto in 
accordance with the Identification Instructions of TCM MSB No. 
MSB644, dated April 4, 1994.
    (k) An alternative method of compliance or adjustment of the 
initial compliance time that provides an acceptable level of safety 
may be used if approved by the Manager, Atlanta Aircraft 
Certification Office. The request should be forwarded through an 
appropriate FAA Maintenance Inspector, who may add comments and then 
send it to the Manager, Atlanta Aircraft Certification Office.

    Note: Information concerning the existence of approved 
alternative methods of compliance with this AD, if any, may be 
obtained from the Atlanta Aircraft Certification Office.

    (l) 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 aircraft to a location where 
the requirements of this AD can be accomplished.
    (m) The actions required by this AD shall be done in accordance 
with the following service document:


------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Document No.                 Pages       Revision date   
------------------------------------------------------------------------
TCM SB No. MSB644........................      1-3  April 4, 1994.      
Total pages: 3.                                                         
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    This incorporation by reference was previously approved by the 
Director of the Federal Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) 
and 1 CFR part 51 as of September 6, 1994 (59 FR 43029, August 22, 
1994). Copies may be obtained from Teledyne Continental Motors, P.O. 
Box 90, Mobile, AL 36601; telephone (205) 438-3411. Copies may be 
inspected at the FAA, New England Region, Office of the Assistant 
Chief Counsel, 12 New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA; or at 
the Office of the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., 
suite 700, Washington, DC.
    (n) This amendment becomes effective on June 28, 1995.

    Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on June 5, 1995.
Ronald L. Vavruska,
Acting Manager, Engine and Propeller Directorate, Aircraft 
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 95-14496 Filed 6-9-95; 2:50 pm]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-U