A320 Captain experiences a spoiler fault after pushback and returns to the gate. Contract Maintenance is unable to correct the fault and the aircraft is dispatched with the number one spoilers on MEL. During approach; when the flaps are positioned from 3 to full; a very pronounced noise and vibration occurs and lateral control becomes unstable and extremely sensitive. Flaps are returned to 3 for landing.

Narrative

After pushback and starting engine #1 we had ECAM 'flight control spoiler fault' and called company and returned to the gate for maintenance. Contract maintenance showed up tried to troubleshoot the problem with help via phone with Maintenance Control. The contract mechanic was unfamiliar with the Airbus type. After 4 and 1/2 hrs the conclusion was a number 1 spoiler fault and secured the spoilers and apparently not having the proper tool to secure the number 1 spoilers; we departed with the number 1 spoilers on MEL. Upon arrival and after configuring the aircraft with gear down and going from flaps 3 to full a very pronounced noise and vibration occurred. Lateral control was unstable and extremely sensitive. After quick brief we went back to flaps 3 configuration and having enough control to safely land we continued and landed. Contacted maintenance and advised them of problem. Contract maintenance [was] unfamiliar with Airbus and apparently [did] not have a proper tool to stow the number 1 spoilers properly.