Summary
This document proposes adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Eurocopter France (ECF) Model AS332C, AS332L, AS332L1, SA330F, SA330G, and SA330J helicopters. This proposal would require inspecting the tail rotor pitch change rod (change rod) bearing and replacing the bearing if the bearing does not meet the specified tolerance. Also, this proposal would require inspecting the bearing for spalling, friction, and grinding and removing any unairworthy bearing. This proposal is prompted by the seizure of a bearing on an ECF Model SA330 helicopter. The actions specified by this proposed AD are intended to prevent bearing wear, bearing seizure of the change rod, loss of tail rotor effectiveness, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.