AD 2020-05-11 Airworthiness Directives; Robinson Helicopter Company Helicopters

Makes named: robinson. Models named: R44, R44 II. Read the applicability below — it usually turns on serial or part numbers too.

This AD applies to Robinson Helicopter Company Model R44 and R44 II helicopters, certificated in any category, with an agricultural spray system installed by Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) SR00286BO with spray systems serial-numbered 0045 through 0178 inclusive, installed. Note 1 to paragraph (c) of this AD: STC SR00286BO approves the installation of Simplex Manufacturing Company Model 244 spray system (spray system). Earlier models of this system have a metal flanged fitting that is not affected by this AD.

Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done.

(1) Before further flight, and thereafter before each flight, visually inspect the spray system pump fitting for signs of stress, cracking, fatigue, and evidence of leaking by following the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraphs 1. through 4., of Simplex Mfg Alert Service Bulletin ASB2017-001, Initial Release, dated March 28, 2017 (ASB2017-001). If there is any sign of stress, cracking, fatigue, or evidence of leaking, before further flight, accomplish paragraph (g)(2) of this AD. (2) Within 3 months, unless required before further flight by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD: (i) Replace spray system pump fitting P/N P-58-0752-40 with fitting P/N 000-123847-000 and install cushion clamp P/N 000-115571-000 and cable tie hose supports by following the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraphs 1. through 6., of Simplex Mfg Service Letter SL2017-017, Revision B, dated March 14, 2018. (ii) Install pump outlet cover P/N 244-302056-001 by following the Accomplishments Instructions, paragraphs 1. through 7., of Simplex Mfg Service Letter SL2017-030, Initial Release, dated March 12, 2018 (SL2017-030), except refer to Figure 2 when instructed to refer to Figure 1. Note 2 to paragraph (g)(2)(ii) of this AD: SL2017-030 includes instructions that refer to a Figure 1; however, there is no Figure 1. (iii) Pressurize the system and determine if the new fitting is functioning correctly by visually inspecting the spray system pump fitting for signs of stress, cracking, fatigue, and evidence of leaking by following the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraphs 1. through 4. of ASB2017-001. If there is any sign of stress, cracking, fatigue, or evidence of leaking, before further flight, remove from service the fitting, cushion clamp, cable tie hose supports, and pump outlet cover and replace with a new fitting, new cushion clamp, new cable tie hose supports, and new pump outlet cover, and repeat the actions required by this paragraph. (3) After the effective date of this AD, do not install a Simplex Model 244 spray system approved under STC SR00286BO with pump fitting P/N P-58-0752-40 on any Robinson Helicopter Company Model R44 or R44 II helicopter.

This AD was prompted by a report of an in-flight failure of the spray system elbow pump fitting (pump fitting). The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent failure of the pump fitting, which could result in an in-flight engine shutdown.

None.