AD/OH-58/2 Pylon Support Link Assemblies (Cth)

AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVE

For the reasons set out in the background section, the CASA delegate whose signature appears below issues the following Airworthiness Directive (AD) under subregulation 39.001(1) of CASR 1998.  The AD requires that the action set out in the requirement section (being action that the delegate considers necessary to correct the unsafe condition) be taken in relation to the aircraft or aeronautical product mentioned in the applicability section: (a) in the circumstances mentioned in the requirement section; and (b) in accordance with the instructions set out in the requirement section; and (c) at the time mentioned in the compliance section.

Bell OH-58A (206A-1) Series Helicopters

AD/OH-58/2 Pylon Support Link Assemblies 9/2008

Applicability:

Model OH-58A (Bell 206A-1) series helicopters, including all certificated versions, with pylon support links part number 206-031-508-5 or -7, installed.

Requirement:

1.    Inspect the pylon support link assemblies in accordance with Part II of Bell Helicopter Service Bulletin No. 206-01-73-2 Revision A, or later FAA approved revision.

If the bearing inner race measures more than 1.255-inches in diameter or there is any crack in the link, before further flight, replace the link assembly.

2.    Inspect the pylon support link assemblies in accordance with Part III of Bell Helicopter Service Bulletin No. 206-01-73-2 Revision A, or later FAA approved revision.

If cracking is detected during any inspection, before further flight, replace the link assembly.

Installation of pylon support links part number 206-031-589 constitutes terminating action to the requirements of this Directive.

Note:  FAA AD 73-08-03 Amdt 39-1622 refers.

Compliance:

1.    Unless already accomplished, within 10 hours time in service after the effective date of this Directive.

2.    Initially, within 25 hours time in service after compliance with Requirement 1, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 25 hours time in service.

This Airworthiness Directive becomes effective on 28 August 2008.

Background:

The actions required by this Directive are intended to prevent possible failure of certain pylon support links.

David Villiers
Delegate of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority

14 July 2008