AD/SA 315/18 Main Gearbox Oil Acidity (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.

Eurocopter SA 315 (Lama) Series Helicopters

AD/SA 315/18 Main Gearbox Oil Acidity 7/2007

Applicability:

Eurocopter SA 315B helicopters.

Requirement:

1.    When checking for correct oil level and condition of the magnetic plug on the MGB, ascertain that the oil is not cloudy, excessively blackened or has any abnormal smell.

2.    If any of the conditions above are detected, inspect the internal condition of the MGB though the filling and drain holes in accordance with AEROSPATIALE Service Bulletin LAMA No. 01.08.

If the internal protection on the MGB is affected remove the MGB for repair.

Note:  DGAC AD 74-79-6 dated 4 July 1974 refers.

Compliance:

1.    During the daily inspection.

2.    Before further flight after the effective date of this AD.

This Airworthiness Directive becomes effective on 5 July 2007.

Background:

Abnormal conditions such as cloudiness colour or smell can indicate excessive acidity of the oil in the MGB.  This condition if not corrected can lead to failure of the MGB.

Charles Lenarcic
Delegate of the Civil Aviation Safety Authority

15 May 2007