Airworthiness Directives; McDonnell Douglas Model MD-11 and -11F Airplanes

This amendment supersedes an existing airworthiness directive (AD), applicable to certain McDonnell Douglas Model MD-11 series airplanes, that currently requires an inspection of the powered drive unit power wires within three feet of each affected powered drive unit termination for mechanical damage; and repair, if necessary. That AD also currently requires revising the wire harnesses; splicing any additional length wire; routing and installing parts; and replacing the floor panels with new and retained floor panels. This amendment revises the existing requirements by improving the routing of the wire harnesses. This amendment is prompted by the FAA's determination that the currently required modification does not adequately preclude the identified unsafe condition. The actions specified in this AD are intended to ensure that the powered roller pans are positioned properly. Improperly positioned powered roller pans could pierce a powered roller wire harness and cause sparking that could ignite adjacent insulation material, which could result in smoke and fire in the center cargo compartment of the airplane.