Which reference should be consulted to determine if a control surface needs to be checked and/or rebalanced after painting?

The manufacturer's service manual is the most appropriate reference for determining if a control surface needs to be checked and/or rebalanced after painting. This manual provides specific guidance from the aircraft manufacturer regarding maintenance procedures and requirements, including any special considerations for control surfaces after they have been painted.

Paint can alter the weight and balance characteristics of control surfaces, and the manufacturer’s service manual will outline whether a check or rebalance is necessary after such modifications. It typically includes specific requirements tailored to the particular aircraft model, which is crucial information for maintaining airworthiness.

The other references, while valuable in their own right, do not provide the targeted information required in this context. FAA regulations might include general safety standards but do not detail specific maintenance procedures related to painting. The aircraft maintenance manual generally provides a broader overview, and while it may contain relevant information, it may not include the specific manufacturer's recommendations. The pilot operating handbook focuses primarily on operating procedures rather than maintenance requirements. Thus, the manufacturer's service manual is the best source for this particular inquiry.