AD 80-17-09

80-17-09 BELL: Amendment 39-3876. Applies to Models 204B, 205A-1, 212, 214B, and 214B-1 helicopters and military UH-1 series helicopters certified in all categories.

Compliance required as indicated for helicopters equipped with main rotor straps, P/N 204-012-122-1, -5, or 214-010-179-1.

To preclude possible separation of a main rotor blade tension-torsion strap and loss of a main rotor blade, accomplish the following:

a. Within the next 100 hours' time in service after the effective date of this airworthiness directive (AD), remove and replace main rotor straps having:

(1) 1,100 or more hours of total time in service on the effective date of this AD, or

(2) 24 or more months elapsed calendar time in service as of the effective date of this AD, whichever comes first.

b. Remove and replace main rotor straps having less than 1,100 hours' total time in service or having less than 24 months elapsed time in service on the effective date of this AD:(1) Prior to attaining 1,200 hours' total time in service, or

(2) Prior to exceeding 24 months elapsed time in service, whichever comes first.

c. The helicopter may be flown in accordance with FAR's 21.197 and 21.199 to a base where this AD may be accomplished.

(Bell Helicopter Textron Alert Service Bulletin No. 212-80-17 pertains to this subject.)

This amendment becomes effective September 15, 1980.