Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-17225 · Main rotor gearbox
Eurocopter France Helicopters
This AD applies to Eurocopter France (Eurocopter) Model EC225 LP helicopters, with an epicyclic module, part number (P/N) 332A32-5021-00 or 332A32-5021-01, installed, certificated in any category.
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Eurocopter France (Eurocopter) Model EC225 helicopters with certain epicyclic modules installed. This AD requires inspecting the epicyclic module for the presence of a through-hole upstream of the magnetic plug. This AD is prompted by a report of a missing through-hole between the integrated collector and the magnetic plug, which would prevent the flow of chips from the integrated collector to the magnetic plug. This could result in the chip-detector system failing to detect deterioration of the main rotor mast lift bearing (lift bearing). These actions are intended to detect a missing through-hole and prevent lift bearing failure 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) Within 10 hours time-in-service (TIS), inspect the tapered housing of the epicyclic module to determine if there is a through-hole upstream of the magnetic plug.
(i) Remove the magnetic plug and support from the housing.
(ii) Determine if the hole above the magnetic plug is a through-hole as shown in figures 1 and 2 to paragraph (e)(1)(ii) of this AD.
(2) If the hole above the magnetic plug is not a through-hole, before further flight, replace the epicyclic module with an airworthy epicyclic module.
(3) Do not install an epicyclic module, P/N 332A32-5021-00 or 332A32-5021-01, on any helicopter unless it has been inspected as required by this AD.
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.
Aircraft
