Hi Aaron;
Thanks for providing enough information for me to see what you’re talking about without taxing my imagination.
In my estimation, this is a minor alteration based on the definition of a major alteration listed in Part 43 Appendix A:
(1) Airframe major alterations. Alterations of the following parts and alterations of the following types, when not listed in the aircraft specifications issued by the FAA, are airframe major alterations:
(i) Wings.
(ii) Tail surfaces.
(iii) Fuselage.
(iv) Engine mounts.
(v) Control system.
(vi) Landing gear.
(vii) Hull or floats.
(viii) Elements of an airframe including spars, ribs, fittings, shock absorbers, bracing, cowling, fairings, and balance weights.
(ix) Hydraulic and electrical actuating system of components.
(x) Rotor blades.
(xi) Changes to the empty weight or empty balance which result in an increase in the maximum certificated weight or center of gravity limits of the aircraft.
(xii) Changes to the basic design of the fuel, oil, cooling, heating, cabin pressurization, electrical, hydraulic, de-icing, or exhaust systems.
(xiii) Changes to the wing or to fixed or movable control surfaces which affect flutter and vibration characteristics.
Other factors are that the hatrack bulkhead is a part approved by the manufacturer, and is listed in the parts manual.
Of course, your IA may not see this the way I do. You’ll have to dance to his tune but you can point out the although the hatrack bulkhead part number is not listed for your airframe, it does not constitute a major alteration.
Let me know how it works out.
Steve
