Inspecting repairs or alterations consists of these basic operations:
- Determine that the repair or alteration data has FAA approval.
- Inspect the configuration of the repair or alteration for conformity to the approved data and the performance standards of 14 CFR part 43. At the same time, the aircraft should still comply with applicable airworthiness requirements, and the repair or alteration be compatible with all other installations.
- Ensure that all operating limitations affected by an alteration are appropriately revised. Sometimes, limitations are in the form of flight manual supplements, instrument range markings, placards, or combinations of these. See the local ASI for limitations on changes which can be made.
- Determine that aircraft record entries have been made and the weight and balance data and equipment list have been revised, when appropriate. There should be a statement on the FAA Form 337 to the effect that the weight and balance data and equipment list have been revised. When an alteration results in a change in the center-of-gravity (CG) position, the affected CG limit should be investigated under adverse loading conditions unless the new CG falls within an approved empty CG range. For instance, if the CG has shifted aft, the loading conditions should be computed to see that the aircraft does not exceed the aft CG limit. It is the pilot’s responsibility to have the aircraft correctly loaded. However, when approving an alteration, it is the IA’s responsibility to see that weight and balance data have been revised. The aircraft record entries may refer to the FAA Form 337 for details, such as: “Installed STOL kit in accordance with STC SA 940 CE drawing number 5084 dated April 24, 1996. See FAA Form 337, this date, for details.”
- Indicate approval in block 7 of FAA Form 337, and return both copies to the person who performed the work, for disposition in accordance with 14 CFR part 43, appendix B.
