Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-14581 · Eurocopter France Model SA-365 N1, AS-365 N2, N3, SA 366 G1, and EC-155B and B1 Helicopters
Eurocopter France Model SA-365 N1, AS-365 N2, N3, SA 366 G1, and EC-155B and B1 Helicopters
Superseded. A later AD replaced this one: AD 2007-25-08. Comply with the one in force.
Model SA-365 N1, AS-365 N2, N3, SA 366 G1, and EC-155B and B1 helicopters, with a tail rotor (T/R) pitch control rod assembly double bearing (bearing) installed, certificated in any category.
This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the specified Eurocopter France (Eurocopter) Model SA-365 N1, AS-365 N2, N3, SA 366 G1, and EC-155B and B1 helicopters. This action requires a one-time inspection for end play in the pitch control rod assembly double bearing (bearing) using the tail rotor (T/R) hub control plate, and before further flight, replacing the bearing if end play is present. This amendment is prompted by one incident in which a pilot lost T/R pitch control of a helicopter while landing. The actions specified in this AD are intended to detect damage to the bearing, resulting in end play and prevent loss of T/R pitch control and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
To detect damage to the bearing resulting in end play and to prevent loss of T/R pitch control and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter:
(a) Within 50 hours time-in-service, inspect the T/R hub control plate for end play in the bearing in accordance with paragraph 2.B., Operational Procedure, in Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin No. 05.00.52, applicable to Model SA-365 N1 and AS-365 N2 and N3 helicopters; No. 05.36, applicable to Model SA 366 G1 helicopters; and No. 05A013, applicable to Model EC-155B and B1 helicopters, dated February 15, 2006 (ASBs).
(b) If end play is present, before further flight, replace the bearing with an airworthy bearing. You are not required to contact the manufacturer to meet the requirements of this AD.
(c) To request a different method of compliance or a different compliance time for this AD, follow the procedures in 14 CFR 39.19. Contact the Manager, Regulations Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, ATTN: Uday Garadi, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas, 76193, telephone (817) 222-5123, fax (817) 222-5961, for information about previously approved alternative methods of compliance.
