AD NUMBER: 2016-17-08

PRODUCT: All Textron Aviation, Inc. Models 310 through 310R, E310H, E310J, T310P through T310R, 310J-1, 320 through 320F, 320-1, 335, 340, 340A, 401 through 401B, 402 through 402C, 411, 411A, 414, 414A, and 421 through 421C airplanes (type certificates 3A10, 3A25, and A7CE previously held by Cessna Aircraft Company).

ACTION: Final Rule; Request for comments

SUMMARY: : The FAA is superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2016-07-24 for the aircraft listed above.

AD 2016-07-24 required replacement and repetitive inspections of the hardware securing the elevator trim tab push-pull rod.

This AD retains the actions for AD 2016-07-24 but revises the repetitive inspection intervals and allows for a longer bolt for the attachment of the elevator trim tab actuator rod end to the push-pull tube connection and/or for the elevator trim tab horn end to the push-pull tube connection.

This AD was prompted by comments indicating difficulties with bolt installation and requesting a revision to repetitive inspection intervals to coincide with established inspection intervals.

The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent jamming of the elevator trim tab in a position outside the normal limits of travel due to the loss of the attachment hardware connecting the elevator trim tab actuator to the elevator trim tab push-pull rod, which could result in loss of control.

DATES: This AD is effective September 12, 2016. Comments must be received by October 11, 2016.

FMI: AD