Summary
This document proposes adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the specified Eurocopter France (ECF) helicopters. This proposal would require inspecting each tail rotor blade de-icing rotating collector (collector) for radial play and rotation torque at specified intervals. If the play or torque exceeds the specified standard, this proposal would require replacing the collector with an airworthy part. This proposal is prompted by excessive play measured on the collector of an ECF Model AS332 helicopter. The actions specified by this proposed AD are intended to prevent wear of a collector bearing, loss of tail rotor effectiveness, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.