Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-16973 · Main rotor head
Eurocopter France Model Helicopters
This AD applies to Model SA-365C, SA-365C1, SA-365C2, SA-365N, SA-365N1, AS-365N2, AS 365 N3, and SA-366G1 helicopters, certificated in any category.
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the Eurocopter France (ECF) Model SA-365C, SA-365C1, SA-365C2, SA-365N, SA- 365N1, AS-365N2, AS 365 N3, and SA-366G1 helicopters. This AD was prompted by some reports of deterioration and two reports of failure of Starflex star arm ends. The actions are intended to modify the main rotor frequency adapters to reduce the temperature in the area, to prevent failure of the star arm end, severe vibration, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
You are responsible for performing each action required by this AD within the specified compliance time unless it has already been accomplished prior to that time.
(1) For a main rotor head frequency adapter, pre MOD 0762C39, within 110 hours time-in-service (TIS), remove the main rotor blades, modify the frequency adapters and bushes, and change the part number of the frequency adapter as shown in Figures 1 through 5 and by following the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 2.B.2., of Eurocopter Emergency Alert Service Bulletin (EASB) No. 62.00.24 for the Model SA-365N, N1, AS-365N2, and AS 365 N3; No. 62.14 for the Model SA-366G1; and No. 65.45 for the Model SA-365C, C1, and C2 helicopters; all dated November 23, 2006. This modification is MOD 0762C39.
(2) For each main rotor head frequency adapter modified per MOD 0762C39, within 10 hours TIS, unless accomplished previously, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 10 hours TIS, inspect to determine whether the safety wire is in place on the trailing edge of the frequency adapter and whether the holes in the frequency adapters and the frequency adapter bushes, as shown in Figure 5 of the EASB for your model helicopter, are blocked.
(i) If the lockwire is missing from the trailing edge of the frequency adapter, before further flight, reposition the bush if it has turned and install more safety wire.
(ii) If a hole is blocked, before further flight, unblock the hole.
(3) Before installing a frequency adapter or bush, modify the frequency adapter or bush and change the part number in accordance with paragraph (e)(1) of this AD.
