SAIB SW-08-16

FAA Aircraft Certification Service

SPECIAL AIRWORTHINESS

INFORMATION BULLETIN SUBJ: Air Conditioning Wiring Chafing SAIB: SW-08-16 Date: April 2, 2008 This is information only. Recommendations aren’t mandatory.

Introduction

This Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB) alerts owners and operators of an electrical short in the air conditioning wiring of Robinson Helicopter Company (Robinson) Model R44 II helicopters thru serial number 12167.

Background

Robinson has received a report of an electrical short in the air conditioning wiring. The short was found in the A/C switch wires in the overhead duct assembly and was caused by the wires chafing against the aluminum support strap in the duct. Chafing occurred in the wiring between the aircraft headliner and connectors for the duct assembly.

Recommendation

We recommend that owners/operators of Robinson Model R44 II helicopters equipped with air conditioning comply with Robinson Service Bulletin SB-65, dated February 22, 2008, which specifies installing additional wire protection in two locations.

For Further Information Contact

Ms. Venessa Stiger, Aerospace Engineer; Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, ANM-150L, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, California 90712, phone: (562) 627-5337; fax: (562) 627- 5210, email: venessa.stiger@faa.gov.

For Related Service Information Contact

Robinson Helicopter Company, 2901 Airport Drive, Torrance, CA 90505, phone: (310) 539-0508;

fax: (310) 539-5198.