Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-16231 · Eurocopter France Model AS 332 C, L, L1, and L2; AS 350 B3; AS355 F, F1, F2, and N; SA 365N and N1; AS 365 N2 and N3; SA 366G1; EC 130 B4; and EC 155B and B1 Helicopters
Eurocopter France Model AS 332 C, L, L1, and L2; AS 350 B3; AS355 F, F1, F2, and N; SA 365N and N1; AS 365 N2 and N3; SA 366G1; EC 130 B4; and EC 155B and B1 Helicopters
This AD applies to Eurocopter France (Eurocopter) Model AS 332 C, L, L1, and L2; AS 350 B3; AS355 F, F1, F2, and N; SA 365N and N1; AS 365 N2 and N3; SA 366G1; EC 130 B4; and EC 155B and B1 helicopters, certificated in any category.
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the specified model helicopters. This AD results from a mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) AD issued by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community. The MCAI AD states that the AD is issued following a manufacturing nonconformity found on one batch of the servo-control caps. With a defective servo-control, rotation of the distributor might not be stopped mechanically since only friction of inner seals holds the distributor sleeve in its position. The AD actions are intended to address the unsafe condition created by a manufacturing nonconformity found on one batch of servo-control caps. If not corrected this condition could cause untimely movements of servo-controls, which are used on main and anti-torque rotors, and lead to the loss of control of the helicopter.
Within 2 months after the effective date of this AD, unless already done, do the following actions.
(1) For each servo-control with a P/N and a serial number (S/N) listed in paragraph 1.A.1. of the applicable Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) stated in Table 1 of this AD, determine whether there is a letter “R” marked in the inspection box of the servo-control identification plate.
(2) If there is no letter “R” marked in the inspection box of a servo-control identification plate, on the next removal of the servo-control, or not later than 2 years after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs first, replace the servo-control with an airworthy servo-control that has an “R” marked in the inspection box of the servo-control identification plate or one with a serial number not listed in paragraph 1.A.1 of the ASB applicable to your model helicopter.
Note 1: The letter “R” marked in the inspection box of the servo-control identification plate indicates that the servo-control cap assembly has been brought into conformity with design data and has been installed properly.
(3) There are 2 identically numbered and dated ASBs. There is an ASB No. 67A010, dated February 19, 2007, that applies to the Model EC130B4 helicopters and an ASB No. 67A010, dated February 19, 2007, that applies to the Model EC 155B and B1 helicopters. You must use the ASB that applies to your model helicopter.
| For helicopter model: | Refer to paragraph 1.A.1 of ASB: |
|---|---|
| AS 332 C, L, L1, and L2 | No. 67.00.37, dated February 19, 2007. |
| AS 350 B3 | No. 67.00.40, dated February 19, 2007. |
| AS 355 F, F1, F2, and N | No. 67.00.28, dated February 19, 2007. |
| AS 365 N and N1 | No. 67.00.13, dated February 19, 2007. |
| SA 366 G1 | No. 67.08, dated February 19, 2007. |
| EC 130 B4 | No. 67A010, dated February 19, 2007. |
| EC 155B and B1 | No. 67A010, dated February 19, 2007. |
This AD differs from the MCAI AD in that it:
(1) Is not applicable to the Model AS 332 C1 helicopters because they are not type certificated in the United States;
(2) Does not require returning the servo-controls to the manufacturer;
(3) Does not address servo-control “spares” (parts not installed on a helicopter);
(4) Uses the term “inspect” rather than “check”; and
(5) Includes information explaining that there are 2 ASBs with the same number and date.
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, Safety Management Group, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send information to Attn: Uday Garadi, Aviation Safety Engineer, Regulations and Policy Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, Fort Worth, Texas 76137, telephone (817) 222-5123, fax (817) 222-5961.
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.
