AD 2012-15-03 Airworthiness Directives; Embraer S.A. Airplanes

Models named: ERJ 190-100 STD, -100 LR, -100 ECJ, -100 IGW, ERJ 190-200 STD, -200 LR, -200 IGW. Read the applicability below — it usually turns on serial or part numbers too.

This AD applies to Embraer S.A. Model ERJ 190-100 STD, -100 LR, -100 ECJ, and -100 IGW airplanes; and Model ERJ 190-200 STD, -200 LR, and -200 IGW airplanes; certificated in any category; all serial numbers.

You are responsible for having the actions required by this AD performed within the compliance times specified, unless the actions have already been done.

Within 30 days after the effective date of this AD, do a one-time general visual inspection to determine if part number (P/N) 190-70980-403 is installed on the left-hand and right-hand MLG retraction actuator. A review of airplane maintenance records is acceptable in lieu of this inspection if the part number of the MLG retraction actuator can be conclusively determined from that review. (1) No further action is required by paragraph (g) of this AD if no MLG retraction actuator having P/N 190-70980-403 is found. (2) If any MLG retraction actuator having P/N 190-70980-403 is found, do a GVI of the actuator and bolt (P/N 2821-0028) for discrepancies (such as cracks, damage, and movement between the actuator rod end and shock strut lug of the MLG retraction actuator), in accordance with “Part I” of the Accomplishment Instructions of EMBRAER Service Bulletin 190-32-0036, dated October 4, 2010 (for all Model ERJ 190 airplanes); or EMBRAER Service Bulletin 190LIN-32-0014, dated February 10, 2011 (for Model 190-100 ECJ airplanes); within the applicable compliance time specified in paragraphs (g)(2)(i) and (g)(2)(ii) of this AD. Repeat the inspection, thereafter, at intervals not to exceed 3,500 flight cycles, until the actions required by paragraph (j) of this AD are done. (i) For any MLG retraction actuator that has accumulated fewer than 3,500 total flight cycles as the effective date of this AD, do the GVI of the actuator before the accumulation of 4,500 total flight cycles on the MLG retraction actuator. (ii) For any MLG retraction actuator that has accumulated 3,500 total flight cycles or more as of the effective date of this AD, do the GVI of the actuator within 1,000 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD. (3) For the purpose of this AD, a general visual inspection (GVI) is: “A visual examination of an interior or exterior area, installation or assembly to detect obvious damage, failure or irregularity. This level of inspection is made from within touching distance, unless otherwise specified. A mirror may be necessary to enhance visual access to all exposed surfaces in the inspection area. This level of inspection is made under normally available lighting conditions such as daylight, hangar lighting, flashlight or droplight, and may require removal or opening of access panels or doors. Stands, ladders or platforms may be required to gain proximity to the area being checked.”

This AD was prompted by a report of damage on the rod end of the retracting actuator rod of the main landing gear (MLG). We are issuing this AD to detect and correct breakage of the MLG retracting actuator rod, which may result in MLG extension with no hydraulic damping and consequent damage to the locking mechanism and collapse of the MLG.

None.