Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-16064 · Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Model 407 and 427 Helicopters
Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Model 407 and 427 Helicopters
This AD applies to the following model and serial-numbered helicopters with an anti-drive (swashplate) link assembly (link assembly), part number (P/N) 406-010-432-101, that has a serial number (S/N) prefix of “TI” or “TIFS”, certificated in any category:
| Model | Serial Nos. |
|---|---|
| 407 | 53000 through 53887, 53890 through 53916, 53918, 53920, 53921, 53923 through 53926, and 53928. |
| 427 | 56001 through 56074. |
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Bell Helicopter Textron Canada (Bell) Model 407 and 427 helicopters. This AD results from a mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) AD issued by the aviation authority of Canada. The MCAI AD states that, during a preflight check, it was observed that the swashplate link assembly bearing had moved in the lever race, making contact with the swashplate support. The MCAI also states that further investigation revealed that the bearing had not been staked correctly during manufacture. That condition, if not detected, could result in failure of a bearing, failure of the swashplate link assembly, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
Required as indicated, unless accomplished previously.
(1) Within 10 hours time-in-service (TIS), using a 10x or higher magnifying glass, inspect the link assembly and determine if the bearing, P/N 406-310-403-101, is correctly installed and properly staked in the link assembly. Also inspect to ensure that the bearing is not loose.
(2) Before further flight, replace any bearing that is incorrectly installed or improperly staked in the link assembly.
(3) Before further flight, replace the link assembly if the bearing is loose.
This AD differs from the MCAI AD as follows:
(1) This AD requires compliance within 10 hours TIS, the MCAI AD requires compliance within the next 10 flight hours, but no later than 30 days from the effective day of the MCAI AD, which was May 6, 2009; and
(2) This AD does not apply to Model 427 helicopters, S/N 58001 or 58002, because those serial-numbered helicopters are not eligible for an FAA certificate of airworthiness.
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, Safety Management Group, FAA, ATTN: Sharon Miles, Aviation Safety Engineer, Rotorcraft Directorate, Fort Worth, Texas 76137, telephone (817) 222-5122, fax (817) 222-5961, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
The aircraft, engines and makers this AD names, by the model designations in its text. A model listed here may still be outside the AD's serial ranges.
