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737NG – Pitch Oscillations in VNAV/LVL CHNG – Troubleshooting

1. Carefully inspect the elevator output torque tube bearings. These are the most likely root
cause of the pitch oscillations. Please note that damage in these bearings may not be
evident upon visual inspection. We recommend the operator replace these bearings as a
precaution:

a) Elevator torque tube crank arm bearing (Ref. IPC 27-31-74-01 Item 90)
b) Elevator output torque tube bearing (Ref. IPC 27-31-00-17 Item 105)
c) Elevator output torque tube attach bearings (Ref. IPC 27-31-74-01 Items 46 & 48)

2. Perform the elevator system portion of 737-SL-27-203-B. Record all results as they may
assist Boeing in further isolating the root cause. Pay close attention to the Elevator Feel and
Centering unit, elevator input torque tube bearings, pulleys and control cables. These
components may induce friction into the system.

3. Perform the elevator system freeplay test per AMM TASK 27-31-32-200-804.

4. Ensure the elevator control cables are rigged/adjusted to the correct tension values per
AMM 27-31-00-820-801.

5. Check the Control Column Feel Forces per AMM TASK 27-31-00-700-809. Make sure that
the applied forces are within the limits in the AMM tables.

6. Check the column travel and centering per AMM TASK 27-31-00-700-808.

7. Perform the elevator neutral shift mechanism inspection per AMM TASK 27-31-91-200-
801. Look for parts showing excessive wear and look for any broken parts. Replace or repair
the parts as required.

8. Carefully inspect the following components for excessive wear, degradation, failure or
corrosion. Replace or repair the parts as required.
a) Elevator output Torque Tube Bushings (Ref. IPC 27-31-00-16 Items 5, 10, 15, 20)
b) Elevator control pushrod bearings (Ref. IPC 27-31-00-43 Items 70, 75 & 115)
c) Elevator hinges (Ref. IPC 27-31-21-01)
d) Elevator Mast Arm Bearing (Ref. IPC 55-20-00-05 Item 560)
e) Elevator Balance Tab Pushrod Bearings (Ref. IPC 27-31-34-04)

9. Check for broken or missing elevator tab springs. Reference AMM TASK 27-31-34-000-
805. Replace or repair the parts as required.

10. Check the autopilot elevator actuator installations. Use AMM TASK 22-11-26-000-801 and
22-11-26-400-801 for references. Check all linkages for any excessive wear or defects.
Make sure all installation bolts are torqued to specification. Replace or repair the parts as
required.

11. Perform the Elevator Surface Friction and Balance Test per AMM TASK 27-31-00-700-
802. Check to see if the elevators are balanced and that the forces are within the limits in
the AMM.

12. Perform the stabilizer control system friction test per AMM 27-41-00-700-802. Make sure
the system moves freely and the measured forces are within the AMM limits.

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