AD 95-09-07 Airworthiness Directives; Robinson Helicopter Company Model R44 Helicopters

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

Model R44 helicopters, serial numbers (S/N) 0001 through 0150, certificated in any category. Note 1: This AD applies to each helicopter identified in the preceding applicability provision, regardless of whether it has been modified, altered, or repaired in the area subject to the requirements of this AD. For helicopters that have been modified, altered, or repaired so that the performance of the requirements of this AD is affected, the owner/operator must use the authority provided in paragraph (c) to request approval from the FAA. This approval may address either no action, if the current configuration eliminates the unsafe condition, or different actions necessary to address the unsafe condition described in this AD. Such a request should include an assessment of the [[Page 24555]] effect of the changed configuration on the unsafe condition addressed by this AD. In no case does the presence of any modification, alteration, or repair remove any helicopter from the applicability of this AD.

Required as indicated, unless accomplished previously. To prevent binding in the cyclic control system and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter, accomplish the following: (a) Within 25 hours time-in-service after the effective date of this AD, remove the existing push-pull tube sleeve guide assembly (sleeve guide) and replace it with a C439-7 push-pull tube roller guide assembly (roller guide), which is included in the KI-88 push- pull tube guide kit, in accordance with the Compliance Procedure in Robinson Helicopter Company Service Bulletin SB-4, dated January 24, 1995. (b) Inspect the C121-7 push-pull tube sleeve for signs of wear and replace, if necessary, using the sleeves and adhesive in the KI- 88 push-pull tube guide kit in accordance with the Compliance Procedure in Robinson Helicopter Company Service Bulletin SB-4, dated January 24, 1995. Repeat this inspection at each 100 hours TIS in accordance with the applicable maintenance manual. (c) An alternative method of compliance or adjustment of the compliance time that provides an acceptable level of safety may be used when approved by the Manager, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, FAA. Operators shall submit their requests through an FAA Principal Maintenance Inspector, who may concur or comment and then send it to the Manager, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office. Note 2: Information concerning the existence of approved alternative methods of compliance with this AD, if any, may be obtained from the Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office. (d) Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with sections 21.197 and 21.199 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199) to operate the helicopter to a location where the requirements of this AD can be accomplished. (e) The removal and replacement shall be done in accordance with Robinson Helicopter Company Service Bulletin SB-4, dated January 24, 1995. This incorporation by reference was approved by the Director of the Federal Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Copies may be obtained from Robinson Helicopter Company, 2901 Airport Drive, Torrance, California, 90505. Copies may be inspected at the FAA, Office of the Assistant Chief Counsel, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Room 663, Fort Worth, Texas; or at the Office of the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, Washington, DC. (f) This amendment becomes effective on May 24, 1995. Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on May 1, 1995. Mark R. Schilling, Acting Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 95-11223 Filed 5-8-95; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P