EASA AD CF-2019-28
Flight Controls — Swashplate Assembly — Improperly Staked Bearings
Summary
Canadian Airworthiness Directive CF-2019-28 addresses an issue with improperly staked bearings in the swashplate assembly of Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited model 505 helicopters, serial numbers 65011 through 65211. The directive mandates inspection and correction of the swashplate assembly bearings to ensure safe flight controls. This AD aims to prevent potential loss of helicopter control caused by bearing migration and subsequent control system failure.
What Changed
CF-2019-28 introduces a new mandatory one-time inspection requirement for all five bearings in the swashplate assembly of affected Bell 505 helicopters. It requires verification of proper staking of the bearings and rectification of any improperly staked bearings before further flight. This AD is based on findings that some bearings were not staked during manufacturing despite inspection marks, posing a safety risk.
Why It Matters
This directive is critical for operators and maintenance organizations to prevent control system failures that could lead to loss of helicopter control. Ensuring bearings are properly staked maintains the integrity of the swashplate movement and control authority. Compliance helps avoid unintended loads on control components, reducing the risk of in-flight mechanical failures.
What To Do
Operators of Bell 505 helicopters with serial numbers 65011 through 65211 must identify if their swashplate assembly part number 206-010-450-123 is affected by consulting BHTCL Alert Service Bulletin 505-19-13. A one-time inspection of all five swashplate bearings for proper staking must be completed within 20 hours air time or 20 days from 2019-08-08, whichever occurs first. Any improperly staked bearings must be corrected before further flight.
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