AD 88-08-03

88-08-03 SOCIETE NATIONALE INDUSTRIELLE AEROSPATIALE (SNIAS): Amendment 39-5886. Applies to all Aerospatiale Model SA 365N series helicopters certificated in all categories.

Compliance is required as indicated (unless already accomplished).

To prevent failure of the attachment bolts of the spherical thrust bearings, accomplish the following:

(a) Replace attachment beam bolts (P/N 365A31-1898-20) for the spherical thrust bearings as follows --

(1) For bolts which have 900 or more hours' time in service on the effective date of this AD, replace the bolts within the next 100 hours' time in service; and

(2) For bolts which have less than 900 hours' time in service on the effective date of this AD, replace the bolts before they reach 1,000 hours' time in service.

(b) An alternate method of compliance with this AD, which provides an equivalent level of safety, may be used when approved by the Manager, Aircraft Certification Division, Federal Aviation Administration, Fort Worth, Texas 76193-0100, or by the Manager, Aircraft Certification Office, AEU-100, FAA, Europe, Africa, and Middle East Office, c/o American Embassy, Brussels, Belgium.

(c) In accordance with FAR 21.197 and 21.199, flight is permitted to a base where the maintenance required by this AD may be accomplished.

NOTE: Aerospatiale Service Bulletin No. 01.20 pertains to this subject.

This amendment, 39-5886, becomes effective April 29, 1988.