Summary
This document proposes the adoption of a new airworthiness directive (AD) that is applicable to Eurocopter France Model AS 332C, L, and L1 helicopters. This proposal would require a one-time inspection of the length of the main gearbox epicyclic module upper casing bearing attachment bolts (attachment bolts), and if they exceed a certain length, replacing the epicyclic module to preclude a potential interference between the attachment bolts and the 2nd stage planet gear cage web. This proposal is prompted by a report of interference between the attachment bolts and the second stage planet gear cage web of the epicyclic module in the main gearbox. The actions specified by the proposed AD are intended to prevent failure of the second stage planet gear of the main gearbox, loss of main rotor drive and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.