Airworthiness Directive · Amendment 39-19602 · Main rotor system
Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited Helicopters
This AD applies to Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited Model 429 helicopters, serial numbers 57001 and larger, with a main rotor pitch link rod end bearing assembly (bearing) part number (P/N) 429-010-433-101 or 429-010-433-103 installed, certificated in any category.
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited (BHTC) Model 429 helicopters. This AD requires inspecting each main rotor pitch link rod end bearing assembly (bearing) for wear and play. This AD was prompted by reports of worn bearings. The actions of this AD are intended to prevent an unsafe condition on these products.
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.
Within 20 hours time-in-service (TIS) and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 50 hours TIS:
(1) Inspect the upper and lower pitch link rod ends for axial and radial bearing play by rolling the bearings through all angles, paying particular attention to the areas depicted in Figure 1 of Bell Helicopter Alert Service Bulletin 429-11-03, Revision A, dated January 13, 2015.
(2) If there is any play in a bearing, remove the pitch link assembly and perform a dimensional inspection of the axial and radial bearing play. Measure the play at the angle that results in the maximum amount of play. Replace the rod end assembly before further flight if bearing play exceeds 0.010 inch for axial direction or 0.005 inch for radial direction.
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.
