FAA has published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that, if enacted as an Airworthiness Directive (AD), would require G58 Baron owners to replace improper strobe light wiring that was installed at the factory.

According to the NPRM,  FAA "received notification from Hawker Beechcraft Corporation that their wiring fabricators created wiring bundles with the incorrect gauge wiring for the three-light strobe system of certain Model G58 airplanes.  The wire used is a smaller gauge wire than required by type design and the aircraft's circuit protection is not adequate to protect the incorrect gauge wire.  This condition, if not corrected, could result in smoke in the cockpit and the possible failure of the aircraft's strobe light system.  The failure of the wiring for the aircraft's strobe light system could also cause potential damage to surrounding wires."

G58 Barons serial number TH-2218 through TH-2285 are affected by this proposed AD.

If enacted, the AD would require replacement of the strobe light wiring within 50 operating hours or six calendar months of the AD's effective date in accordance with Hawker Beechcraft Mandatory Service Bulletin 33-4053.  FAA estimates the cost of compliance to be $1410 including 16 hours of labor.  "According to [Hawker Beechcraft], some of the costs of this proposed AD may be covered under warranty...." 

For more information see the NPRM and MSB 33-4053. 

Comments to the NPRM must be received by September 24, 2012.  Reference Docket No. FAA-2012-0829, Directorate Identifier 2012-CE-024-AD.

You may discuss this topic in ABS Hangar Flying.