SAIB SW-05-87

SPECIAL AIRWORTHINESS

INFORMATION BULLETIN

Aircraft Certification Service Washington, DC

U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Aviation Administration

SW-05-87 September 30, 2005 http://www.faa.gov/aircraft/safety/alerts/SAIB This is information only. Recommendations aren’t mandatory.

Introduction

This Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin alerts you, owners or operators of Bell Helicopter Textron Canada (Bell) Model 206B helicopters, serial number (S/N) 254 through 4585 and 5101 through 5305, equipped with a torque indicator, part number (P/N) 206-075-739-125; and Bell Model 206L4 helicopters, S/N 52001 through 52301 and 52303, equipped with a torque indicator, P/N 206-075-739-123, of information recalling certain the torque indicators.

Background

Due to manufacturing discrepancies, the torque indicator performance in cold weather may be affected, resulting in lower then actual readings. The affected torque indicators are manufactured by Ahlers Aerospace Inc. and may have been installed in production or sold as spares.

Bell has issued Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) 206-05-104, dated May 17, 2005, to recall torque indicators with P/N 206-075-739-125 and ASB 206L-05-133, dated May 17, 2005, to recall torque indicators with P/N 206-075- 739-123 (both attached).

Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA) has issued Airworthiness Directive (AD) CF-2005- 22 on June 24, 2005 pertaining to these two ASBs.

Recommendations

We recommend that you remove and replace the affected parts per the instructions provided in the referenced Bell ASBs.

For Further Information Contact

Gary Middleton, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA Rotorcraft Directorate, ASW-111, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas, 76137;

Phone: (817) 222-5197; e-mail:

gary.middleton@faa.gov

For Service Bulletins Information Contact

Bell Helicopter Textron Canada, 12800 Rue De L’ Avenue, Mirabel, Quebec, J7J1R4 Canada; phone: (800) 363-8023; fax: (450) 433-0272.

NO.

DATE PAGE DATE REV

ALERT SERVICE BULLETIN

A Subsidiary of Textron Inc.

AN APPROPRIATE ENTRY SHOULD BE MADE IN THE AIRCRAFT LOGBOOK UPON ACCOMPLISHMENT

IF OWNERSHIP OF AIRCRAFT HAS CHANGED PLEASE FORWARD TO NEW OWNER 206L-05-133 May 17, 2005 1 of 5

MODEL AFFECTED: 206L4

SUBJECT: TORQUE INDICA TOR, P/N 206-075-739-123, RECALL OF.

HELICOPTERS AFFECTED: 206L4 helicopters serial number 52288 through 52301 and serial number 5230 3, which had torque indicator 206-075-739-123 installed at the factory.

206L4 serial number 52001 through 52287 that have torque indicator 206-075-739-123 installed.

206L4 helicopters serial number 52302 and 52304 and subsequent will have the intent of this bulletin accomplished prior to delivery.

COMPLIANCE: Not later than October 31, 2005

DESCRIPTION:

Bell Helicopter has learned that some torque indicators may not perform as desired in cold weather. The affected torque indicato rs are manufactured by Ahlers Aerospace Inc. and have been installed in production or sold as spares.

This bulletin is issued to recall 206-075-739-123 torque indicators.

APPROVAL:

The engineering design aspects of this bulletin are TCCA approved.

ASB 206L-05-133 Page 2 of 5

MANPOWER:

Approximately 2.0 man-hours ar e required to complete this bulletin. Man-hours are based on hands-on time, and may vary with personnel and facilities available.

WARRANTY:

For new torque indicators in spares stock:

1. Place an order for a new torque indicator 206-075-739-127 through your Bell authorized spares supplier.

2. File a completed warrant y claim with Bell Helicopter Warranty Administration within 5 days of receiving your replac ement –127 indicator. Claims may be faxed to (817) 280-8898. If filing the claim using VISTA, be sure to tick the “ASB” box under bulletins.

3. You will be contacted by Bell Warr anty with an RMA number for the return shipment of the removed –123 indicator. Ensure the RMA number is marked conspicuously on the outside of the packa ge, and return the –123 indicator to Bell Helicopter within 10 days . It is important that y ou use the RMA in order to ensure you receive credit for the core return. Failure to utilize the RMA will result in forfeiture of the core credit.

4. For international shipments, prior to shipping contact Bell Helicopter Import Compliance Department:

Fax: 817-278-3576 Phone: 817-280-3576 Email: lmandrell@bell helicopter.textron.com

For installed or used spare torque indicators:

1. To facilitate replacement of the su spect torque indicators, a rotable pool of refurbished assets is available.

2. To place an order for a refurbished 20 6-075-739-127 torque indicator, contact Bell Helicopter Spares Order Administration.

3. Operators may wish to have their ow n 206-075-739-123 torque indicator modified rather than exchanged. For this option, special handli ng will be requir ed. Please contact Bell Helicopter R epair & Overhaul Services at 817-280-3406 to make arrangements.

ASB 206L-05-133 Page 3 of 5

4. Return the removed Torque Indicator to:

Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.

Bell Logistics Center Bldg. 55, Plant 8 776 Henrietta Creek Rd.

Roanoke, TX 76262 Attn: Customer Property Return

MATERIAL:

Required Material:

The following material is required for the ac complishment of this bulletin and may be obtained through your Bell Helicopter Textron Supply Center.

Part Number Nomenclature Quantity

206-075-739-127 (1) Engine torque indicator 1

NOTE 1: A new torque indicator will be provided only to replace a new spare torque indicator only. For a used torque indicator, a refurbished torque indicator 206-075-739-127 will be available via an exchange program.

Refer to Warranty statement for details.

Consumable Material:

None required

SPECIAL TOOLS:

None required

WEIGHT AND BALANCE:

Not affected

ELECTRICAL LOAD DATA:

Not affected

ASB 206L-05-133 Page 4 of 5

REFERENCES:

BHT-206L4-MM-10 Chapter 95 Instrument System

BHT-206L-SERIES-IPB Chapter 95 Instruments

PUBLICATIONS AFFECTED:

BHT-206L4-MM-10 Chapter 95 Instrument System

BHT-206L-SERIES-IPB Chapter 95 Instruments

ACCOMPLISHMENT INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Gain access to the back of t he instrument panel (BHT-206L4-MM-10 chapter 95).

2. Verify the part number of the in stalled engine torque indicator.

3. If torque indicator 206-075-739-123 is not installed, this bulletin does not apply; proceed to step 6.

4. If torque indicator 206-075-739-123 is installed, proceed as follows:

a. Remove torque indicator 206-075-739-123. (BHT-206L4-MM-10 chapter 95)

-NOTE-

The new indicator 206-075-739-129 is delivered from the manufacturer filled with oil. Take precaution to hold fluid loss to a minimum during installation.

b. Install 206-075-739-127 indicator or an acceptabl e alternate such as listed in the BHT-206L-SERIES-I PB chapter 95. (BHT-206L4-MM-10 chapter 95)

ASB 206L-05-133 Page 5 of 5

5. Complete the installation of the torque indicator by bleeding the instrument lines as follows:

a) Disconnect the torque indicator line at engine and connect a lowpressure filler gun filled with approved engine oil.

b) Place a suitable cont ainer under the torque indicator line at the instrument.

c) Loosen the torque indicator line at the torque indicator while slowly applying pressure with the filler gun. C ontinue to force oil into line until a steady flow is established at the torque indicator end and a bubble free flow has been established.

d) When bleeding has been satisfactorily completed, tighten the line to the instrument. Carefully close instrum ent panel, taking care that wiring and tubes behind the panel stow without twisting or interference. Secure panel.

e) Remove the low-pressure filler gun and connect aft end of line at engine, keeping the fluid loss to a minimum during installation.

6. Annotate the helicopter records indi cating compliance with this bulletin.

7. Ensure the spares stock is ex amined for applicability of this ASB.

NO.

DATE PAGE DATE REV

ALERT SERVICE BULLETIN

A Subsidiary of Textron Inc.

AN APPROPRIATE ENTRY SHOULD BE MADE IN THE AIRCRAFT LOGBOOK UPON ACCOMPLISHMENT

IF OWNERSHIP OF AIRCRAFT HAS CHANGED PLEASE FORWARD TO NEW OWNER 206-05-104 May 17, 2005 1 of 5

MODEL AFFECTED: 206B and TH-67

SUBJECT: TORQUE I NDICATOR 206-075-739-125, RECALL OF.

HELICOPTERS AFFECTED: 206B helicopters serial number 4576 through 4582, which had torque indicator 206-075-739-125 installed at the factory.

206B helicopters serial number 254 through 913 modified by SI 206-80 or TB206-08-73-1 that have torque indicator 206-075-739-125 installed.

206B helicopters serial number 914 through 4582 that have torque indicator 206-075-739-125 installed.

206B helicopters serial num ber 4583 through 4585 are not affected by this bu lletin unless the original indicator has been replaced by one of those affected by this bulletin.

206B helicopters serial numbers 4586 and subsequent will have the intent of this bulletin accomplished prior to delivery.

TH-67 helicopters serial number 5101 through 5305 that have torque indicator 206-075-739-125 installed.

TH-67 helicopters seri al numbers 5306 and subsequent will have the intent of this bulletin accomplished prior to delivery.

COMPLIANCE: Not later than October 31, 2005.

ASB 206-05-104 Page 2 of 5

DESCRIPTION:

Bell Helicopter has learned that some torque indicators ma y not perform as desired in cold weather. The affected torque indicato rs are manufactured by Ahlers Aerospace Inc. and may have been installed in production or sold as spares.

This bulletin is issued to recall 206-075-739-125 torque indicators.

APPROVAL:

The engineering design aspects of this bulletin are TCCA approved.

MANPOWER:

Approximately 2.0 man-hours ar e required to complete this bulletin. Man-hours are based on hands-on time, and may vary with personnel and facilities available.

WARRANTY:

A. For new torque indicators in spares stock:

1. Place an order for a new torque in dicator 206-075-739-129 through your Bell authorized spares supplier.

2. File a completed warranty claim with Be ll Helicopter Warranty Administration within 5 days of receiving your replacement –129 indicator. Claims may be faxed to (817) 280-8898. If filing the claim using VISTA, be sure to tick the “ASB” box under bulletins.

a. You will be contacted by Bell Warr anty with an RMA number for the return shipment of the removed –125 indicator. Ensure the RMA number is marked conspicuously on the outside of the packa ge, and return the –125 indicator to Bell Helicopter within 10 days . It is important that y ou use the RMA in order to ensure you receive credit for the core return. Failure to utilize the RMA will result in forfeiture of the core credit.

3. For international shipments, prior to shipping contact Bell Helicopter Import Compliance Department:

Fax: 817-278-3576 Phone: 817-280-3576 Email: lmandrell@bell helicopter.textron.com

ASB 206-05-104 Page 3 of 5

B. For installed or used spare torque indicators:

1. To facilitate replacement of the su spect torque indicators, a rotable pool of refurbished assets is available.

2. To place an order for a refurbished 20 6-075-739-129 torque indicator, contact Bell Helicopter Spares Order Administration.

3. Operators may wish to have their ow n 206-075-739-125 torque indicator modified rather than exchanged. For this option, special handli ng will be requir ed. Please contact Bell Helicopter R epair & Overhaul Services at 817-280-3406 to make arrangements.

4. Return the removed Torque Indicator to:

Bell Helicopter Textron Inc.

Bell Logistics Center Bldg. 55, Plant 8 776 Henrietta Creek Rd.

Roanoke, TX 76262 Attn: Customer Property Return

MATERIAL:

Required Material:

The following material is required for the ac complishment of this bulletin and may be obtained through your Bell Helicopter Textron Supply Center.

Part Number Nomenclature Quantity

206-075-739-129 (1) Engine torque indicator 1

NOTE 1: A new torque indicator will be provided only to replace a new spare torque indicator. For a used torque indicator, a refurbished torque indicator 206-075-739-129 will be available via an exchange program.

Refer to Warranty statement for details.

Consumable Material:

None required

ASB 206-05-104 Page 4 of 5

SPECIAL TOOLS:

None required

WEIGHT AND BALANCE:

Not affected

ELECTRICAL LOAD DATA:

Not affected

REFERENCES:

BHT-206A/B-SERIES-MM-10 Maintenance Manual Chapter 95 – Instrument System

BHT-206A/B-SERIES-IPB

PUBLICATIONS AFFECTED:

BHT-206A/B-SERIES-MM-10 Maintenance Manual Chapter 95 – Instrument System

BHT-206A/B-SERIES-IPB

ACCOMPLISHMENT INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Gain access to the back of the in strument panel (BHT-206A/B-SERIES-MM-10 chapter 95).

2. Verify the part number of the installed engine torque indicator.

3. If torque indicator 206-075- 739-125 is not installed, this bulletin does not apply;

proceed to step 6.

4. If torque indicator 206-075-739-125 is installed, proceed as follows:

a. Remove torque indicator 206- 075-739-125 (BHT- 206A/B-SERIES-MM- 10 chapter 95).

ASB 206-05-104 Page 5 of 5

-NOTE-

The new indicato r 206-075-739-129 is delivered from the manufacturer filled with oil. Take precaution to hold fluid loss to a minimum during installation.

b. Install 206-075-739-129 i ndicator or an acceptable alternate such as listed in the BHT-206A/ B-SERIES-IPB section 95. (BHT-206A/B-SERIES- MM-10 chapter 95)

5. Complete the installation of the torque indicator by bleeding the instrument lines as follows:

a. Disconnect the torquemeter line at engine and connect a low-pressure filler gun filled with approved engine oil.

b. Place a suitable cont ainer under the torque indicator line at the instrument.

c. Loosen the torque indicator line at the torque indicator while slowly applying pressure with the filler gun. C ontinue to force oil into the line until a steady flow is established at the torque indicator end and a bubble free flow has been established.

d. When bleeding has been satisfactorily completed, tighten the line to the instrument. Carefully close instrum ent panel, taking care that wiring and tubes behind panel stow without twisting or interference. Secure panel.

e. Remove the low-pressure filler gun and connect aft end of line at engine, taking precaution to hold fluid loss to a minimum during installation.

6. Annotate the helicopter records indi cating compliance with this bulletin.

7. Ensure the spares stock is exam ined for applicability of this ASB.