EASA AD CF-2018-01R2
Landing Gear — Nose Landing Gear Drag Strut Lock Link Wear
Summary
The Airworthiness Directive CF-2018-01R2 addresses wear issues in the nose landing gear (NLG) drag strut lock link on De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited DHC-8-400, -401, and -402 models, serial numbers 4001 through 4585 and 4587. It mandates inspections and corrective actions to prevent NLG collapse caused by worn or loose bushings in the locking mechanism. This directive updates previous versions to clarify supersession and compliance requirements.
What Changed
Airworthiness Directive CF-2018-01R2 supersedes AD CF-2018-01R1 and AD CF-2018-01, consolidating previous revisions and clarifying that both earlier ADs are now replaced. It includes a revision section to explicitly state the supersession and maintains the inspection and modification requirements for the NLG lower lock link.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for aviation professionals to prevent nose landing gear failures that could lead to gear collapse on landing, posing safety risks. Operators and maintenance teams must ensure compliance to avoid operational disruptions and maintain airworthiness. The updated AD provides clear guidance on inspection intervals and modification deadlines, aiding in effective maintenance planning.
What To Do
Operators must inspect the NLG lower lock link according to Bombardier Service Bulletin 84-32-153 and perform repairs or replacements as necessary before further flight. Initial inspections depend on accumulated flight cycles, with repeat inspections every 1600 flight cycles. Additionally, the existing lower lock link must be replaced with the new configuration part number 47324-3 within 8000 flight cycles or 48 months from 4 February 2019. Compliance with these actions is mandatory to continue safe operations.
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