Airworthiness Directives; Robinson Helicopter Company Helicopters, 13706-13708 [2018-06449]
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13706
Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 62 / Friday, March 30, 2018 / Proposed Rules
Regulatory Findings
We determined that this proposed AD
would not have federalism implications
under Executive Order 13132. This
proposed AD would not have a
substantial direct effect on the States, on
the relationship between the national
Government and the States, or on the
distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify this proposed regulation:
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866,
(2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under
the DOT Regulatory Policies and
Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26,
1979),
(3) Will not affect intrastate aviation
in Alaska, and
(4) Will not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
The Proposed Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part
39 as follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
General Electric Company: Docket No. FAA–
2017–0792; Product Identifier 2017–NE–
28–AD.
(a) Comments Due Date
We must receive comments by May 14,
2018.
amozie on DSK30RV082PROD with PROPOSALS
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to General Electric
Company (GE) CF6–80A, CF6–80A1, CF6–
80A2, CF6–80A3, CF6–80C2A1, CF6–
80C2A2, CF6–80C2A3, CF6–80C2A5, CF6–
80C2A5F, CF6–80C2A8, CF6–80C2B1, CF6–
80C2B1F, CF6–80C2B2, CF6–80C2B2F, CF6–
80C2B4, CF6–80C2B4F, CF6–80C2B5F, CF6–
80C2B6, CF6–80C2B6F, CF6–80C2B6FA,
CF6–80C2B7F, CF6–80C2D1F, CF6–
80C2L1F, and CF6–80C2K1F turbofan
18:11 Mar 29, 2018
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)
Code 7250, Turbine/Turboprop Engine—
Turbine Section.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by an uncontained
failure of an HPT stage 2 disk. We are issuing
this AD to prevent failure of the HPT Stage
1 disk (CF6–80C2) and the HPT Stage 2 disk
(CF6–80C2 and CF6–80A). The unsafe
condition, if not addressed, could result in an
uncontained HPT disk release, damage to the
engine, and damage to the airplane.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
Jkt 244001
(k) Related Information
(1) For more information about this AD,
contact Herman Mak, Aerospace Engineer,
FAA, ECO Branch, Compliance and
Airworthiness Division, 1200 District
Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 781–
238–7147; fax: 781–238–7199; email:
herman.mak@faa.gov.
(2) For service information identified in
this AD, contact General Electric Company,
GE Aviation, Room 285, 1 Neumann Way,
Cincinnati, OH 45215; phone: 513–552–3272;
email: aviation.fleetsupport@ge.com. You
may view this referenced service information
at the FAA, Engine and Propeller Standards
Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington,
MA 01803. For information on the
availability of this material at the FAA, call
781–238–7759.
Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on
March 23, 2018.
Robert J. Ganley,
Manager, Engine and Propeller Standards
Branch, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2018–06390 Filed 3–29–18; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
(g) Required Actions
After the effective date of this AD, perform
an ultrasonic inspection (UI) for cracks in
stage 1 and stage 2 HPT disks on the CF6–
80C2 engine model and in stage 2 HPT disks
on the CF6–80A engine model at each piecepart level exposure in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph
3.A.(2), in GE CF6–80C2 SB 72–1562 R03,
dated January 10, 2018, or the
Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph
3.A.(2) in GE CF6–80A SB 72–0869 R01,
dated October 19, 2017, as applicable to the
engine model.
The reporting requirements specified in the
Accomplishment Instructions, paragraphs
3.A.(2)(c) and 3.A.(2)(f), of GE CF6–80C2 SB
72–1562 R03, dated January 10, 2018, are not
required by this AD.
(i) Definition
■
VerDate Sep<11>2014
(d) Subject
(h) Non-Required Actions
■
§ 39.13
engines with high-pressure turbine (HPT)
disks with serial numbers listed in Table 1
and 2 of Appendix A in GE CF6–80C2
Service Bulletin (SB) 72–1562 R03, dated
January 10, 2018; and Table 1 of Appendix
A in GE CF6–80A SB 72–0869 R01, dated
October 19, 2017.
For the purpose of this AD, ‘‘piece-part
exposure’’ of the stage 1 or stage 2 HPT disk
is separation of that HPT disk from its mating
rotor parts within the HPT rotor module
(thermal shield and HPT stage 1 and stage 2
disk respectively).
(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, ECO Branch, FAA, has
the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD,
if requested using the procedures found in 14
CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19,
send your request to your principal inspector
or local Flight Standards District Office, as
appropriate. If sending information directly
to the manager of the certification office send
it to the attention of the person identified in
paragraph (j) of this AD. You may email your
request to: ANE-AD-AMOC@faa.gov.
(2) Before using any approved AMOC,
notify your appropriate principal inspector,
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/
certificate holding district office.
PO 00000
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2017–0682; Product
Identifier 2017–SW–028–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Robinson
Helicopter Company Helicopters
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
AGENCY:
We propose to adopt a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for
Robinson Helicopter Company
(Robinson) Model R66 helicopters. This
proposed AD would require replacing
the tail rotor drive shaft yoke assembly
and inspecting for sealant. This
proposed AD is prompted by reports of
tail rotor driveshaft failures. The actions
of this proposed AD are intended to
correct an unsafe condition on these
products.
SUMMARY:
We must receive comments on
this proposed AD by May 29, 2018.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments by
any of the following methods:
• Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to
https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
online instructions for sending your
comments electronically.
• Fax: 202–493–2251.
• Mail: Send comments to the U.S.
Department of Transportation, Docket
Operations, M–30, West Building
DATES:
E:\FR\FM\30MRP1.SGM
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Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 62 / Friday, March 30, 2018 / Proposed Rules
Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200
New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC
20590–0001.
• Hand Delivery: Deliver to the
‘‘Mail’’ address between 9 a.m. and 5
p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on
the internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2017–
0682; or in person at Docket Operations
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
The AD docket contains this proposed
AD, the economic evaluation, any
comments received, and other
information. The street address for
Docket Operations (telephone 800–647–
5527) is in the ADDRESSES section.
Comments will be available in the AD
docket shortly after receipt.
For service information identified in
this proposed rule, contact Robinson
Helicopter Company, 2901 Airport
Drive, Torrance, CA 90505; telephone
(310) 539–0508; fax (310) 539–5198; or
at https://www.robinsonheli.com/
servelib.htm. You may review the
referenced service information at the
FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood
Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX
76177.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Danny Nguyen, Aerospace Engineer, Los
Angeles ACO Branch, Compliance &
Airworthiness Division, FAA, 3960
Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, California
90712; telephone (562) 627–5247; email
danny.nguyen@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
amozie on DSK30RV082PROD with PROPOSALS
Comments Invited
We invite you to participate in this
rulemaking by submitting written
comments, data, or views. We also
invite comments relating to the
economic, environmental, energy, or
federalism impacts that might result
from adopting the proposals in this
document. The most helpful comments
reference a specific portion of the
proposal, explain the reason for any
recommended change, and include
supporting data. To ensure the docket
does not contain duplicate comments,
commenters should send only one copy
of written comments, or if comments are
filed electronically, commenters should
submit only one time.
We will file in the docket all
comments that we receive, as well as a
report summarizing each substantive
public contact with FAA personnel
concerning this proposed rulemaking.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
18:11 Mar 29, 2018
Jkt 244001
Before acting on this proposal, we will
consider all comments we receive on or
before the closing date for comments.
We will consider comments filed after
the comment period has closed if it is
possible to do so without incurring
expense or delay. We may change this
proposal in light of the comments we
receive.
Discussion
We propose to adopt a new AD for
Robinson Model R66 helicopters, serial
numbers 0003 through 0752, with a tail
rotor drive shaft assembly part number
(P/N) D224–3 or D224–4 installed. This
proposed AD would require, within 100
hours time-in-service (TIS), replacing
the forward yoke assembly of the tail
rotor drive shaft unless already
accomplished, visually inspecting for
sealant, and applying sealant if needed
to prevent seal rotation.
This proposed AD is prompted by two
incidents of bearing failure that stem
from a bearing assembly that included a
bearing that was undersized for its
housing. Consequently, the bearing was
spinning at a speed that caused
excessive heating of the bearing
operation and led to the breakdown of
the bearing’s grease and ultimately
seizure of the C647–16 bearing.
To correct this condition, Robinson
initially specified installing a
temperature recorder on the tail rotor
driveshaft bearing assembly (bearing
assembly) and inspecting the
temperature recorder during preflight
checks and during each 100-hour
inspection. If the bearing was found
running hot, then Robinson advised
upgrading the bearing to a newer design.
Robinson later specified through R66
Service Bulletin SB–20, dated
November 7, 2016, modifying the
forward D224–3 and D224–4 tail rotor
drive shaft assemblies by using a kit that
has an improved, larger bearing that
spins with less friction. The bulletin
also specified inspecting whether 0.5
inch of sealant was on the junction of
the black seal and bearing outer race
and installing sealant if there was less
than 0.5 inch of sealant. Robinson
clarified R66 Service Bulletin SB–20
with R66 Service Bulletin SB–20A,
dated June 6, 2017, that helicopters
equipped with D224–4 tail rotor drive
shaft assemblies and certain modified
D224–3 assemblies do not require being
upgraded with the kit.
The actions specified by this AD are
intended prevent failure of the tail rotor
driveshaft forward bearing and
subsequent loss of helicopter control.
PO 00000
Frm 00017
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
13707
FAA’s Determination
We are proposing this AD because we
evaluated all known relevant
information and determined that an
unsafe condition exists and is likely to
exist or develop on other products of
these same type designs.
Related Service Information
We reviewed Robinson R66 Service
Bulletin SB–14, dated June 25, 2015,
which specifies installing a temperature
recorder on the bearing assembly and
inspecting the temperature during
preflight checks and during each 100hour inspection. If the temperature of
the bearing is found running hot, then
Robinson advises upgrading the bearing
to a newer design (kit P/N KI–235). This
service information also specifies
adding a caution page to the Pilot
Operating Handbook regarding the
overheating bearing assemblies.
We also reviewed Robinson R66
Service Bulletin SB–20, dated
November 7, 2016, and Robinson R66
Service Bulletin SB–20A, dated June 6,
2017, which specify upgrading the
bearing assembly to the newer design
with kit P/N KI–235 if not previously
done. The service information also
contains procedures for inspecting for
sealant and applying sealant to the
damper and hanger bearings if needed
to prevent seal rotation.
Lastly, we reviewed Robinson KI–235
R66 TRDS Forward Yoke Assembly and
Hanger Installation Kit Instructions,
Revision A, dated June 23, 2015. This
information provides instructions for
installing the newly designed forward
yoke assembly, P/N D224–5, on the tail
rotor drive shaft.
Proposed AD Requirements
This proposed AD would require,
within 100 hours TIS, replacing the tail
rotor drive shaft forward yoke assembly,
inspecting the damper and hanger
bearings for sealant, and applying
sealant if needed.
Differences Between This Proposed AD
and the Service Information
The service information specifies
replacing the forward yoke assembly
and applying the sealant to the bearing
seals within the next 100 flight hours or
by January 31, 2017, whichever comes
first. This proposed AD would not have
a calendar time compliance
requirement.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this proposed AD
would affect 249 helicopters of U.S.
Registry and that labor costs average $85
per work-hour. Based on these
estimates, we expect the following costs:
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13708
Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 62 / Friday, March 30, 2018 / Proposed Rules
The Proposed Amendment
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
section 106, describes the authority of
the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII:
Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more
detail the scope of the Agency’s
authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under
the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII,
Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:
General requirements.’’ Under that
section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in
air commerce by prescribing regulations
for practices, methods, and procedures
the Administrator finds necessary for
safety in air commerce. This regulation
is within the scope of that authority
because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on
products identified in this rulemaking
action.
amozie on DSK30RV082PROD with PROPOSALS
• Replacing the yoke assembly would
require 6 work-hours and $798 for parts,
for a cost of $1,308 per helicopter.
• Inspecting for and applying sealant
would require 1 work-hour and $30 for
parts, for a cost of $115 per helicopter.
Based on these costs, we expect a total
cost of $1,423 per helicopter and
$354,327 for the U.S. operator fleet.
■
Regulatory Findings
We determined that this proposed AD
would not have federalism implications
under Executive Order 13132. This
proposed AD would not have a
substantial direct effect on the States, on
the relationship between the national
Government and the States, or on the
distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed, I certify
this proposed regulation:
1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in
Alaska to the extent that it justifies
making a regulatory distinction; and
4. Will not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
We prepared an economic evaluation
of the estimated costs to comply with
this proposed AD and placed it in the
AD docket.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
18:11 Mar 29, 2018
Jkt 244001
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part
39 as follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
■
Robinson Helicopter Company: Docket No.
FAA–2017–0682; Directorate Identifier
2017–SW–028–AD.
(a) Applicability
This AD applies to Robinson Helicopter
Company (Robinson) Model R66 helicopters,
serial numbers 0003 through 0752, with a tail
rotor drive shaft assembly part number (P/N)
D224–3 or D224–4 tail rotor drive shaft
assembly installed, certificated in any
category.
(b) Unsafe Condition
This AD defines the unsafe condition as
failure of a tail rotor driveshaft forward
bearing. This condition could result in failure
of the tail rotor driveshaft and subsequent
loss of helicopter control.
(c) Comments Due Date
We must receive comments by May 29,
2018.
(d) Compliance
You are responsible for performing each
action required by this AD within the
specified compliance time unless it has
already been accomplished prior to that time.
(e) Required Actions
Within 100 hours TIS:
(1) Replace the tail rotor drive shaft
forward yoke assembly with a yoke assembly
part number D224–5, if not previously done.
(2) Remove the forward inspection plug
assembly from the tailcone and either remove
the B322–2 cover from the top of the third
tailcone bay or, if an antenna is installed,
remove the antenna and pull the circuit
breaker.
(3) Visually inspect the forward and aft
sides of the hanger bearing and damper
bearing for sealant along the junction of the
seal and bearing outer race. If the sealant is
less than 0.5 inch in length, clean the area
and apply a minimum 0.5 inch long bead of
polysulfide fuel-resistant sealant at the
junction of the seal and bearing outer race.
(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOC)
(1) The Manager, Los Angeles ACO Branch,
FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send
your proposal to: Danny Nguyen, Aerospace
Engineer, Los Angeles ACO Branch,
Compliance & Airworthiness Division, FAA,
PO 00000
Frm 00018
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, California
90712; telephone (562) 627–5247; email 9ANM-LAACO-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov.
(2) For operations conducted under a 14
CFR part 119 operating certificate or under
14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that
you notify your principal inspector, or
lacking a principal inspector, the manager of
the local flight standards district office or
certificate holding district office before
operating any aircraft complying with this
AD through an AMOC.
(g) Additional Information
For service information identified in this
AD, contact Robinson Helicopter Company,
2901 Airport Drive, Torrance, CA 90505;
telephone (310) 539–0508; fax (310) 539–
5198; or at https://www.robinsonheli.com/
servelib.htm. You may review a copy of
information at the FAA, Office of the
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101
Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth,
TX 76177.
(h) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)
Code: 6510, Tail Rotor Drive Shaft.
Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on March 23,
2018.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2018–06449 Filed 3–29–18; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 71
[Docket No. FAA–2017–0954; Airspace
Docket No. 17–AEA–16]
Proposed Amendment of Class D and
Class E Airspace; Beaver Falls, PA;
and Zelienople, PA
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
AGENCY:
This action proposes to
amend Class E airspace extending
upward from 700 feet or more above the
surface, at Beaver Falls, PA, as the
University of Pittsburg Medical Center
Beaver Valley Heliport has closed, and
controlled airspace is no longer
required. The geographic coordinates of
the Ellwood City VORTAC, noted in the
Beaver County Airport, Beaver Falls,
PA, description, also would be amended
in the associated Class E airspace. Also,
the term Airport Facility Directory
would be replaced with Chart
Supplement. Additionally, this action
would amend Class E airspace
extending upward from 700 feet or more
above the surface at Zelienople
SUMMARY:
E:\FR\FM\30MRP1.SGM
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]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 62 (Friday, March 30, 2018)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 13706-13708]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2018-06449]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2017-0682; Product Identifier 2017-SW-028-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Robinson Helicopter Company Helicopters
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
Robinson Helicopter Company (Robinson) Model R66 helicopters. This
proposed AD would require replacing the tail rotor drive shaft yoke
assembly and inspecting for sealant. This proposed AD is prompted by
reports of tail rotor driveshaft failures. The actions of this proposed
AD are intended to correct an unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by May 29, 2018.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods:
Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions for sending your
comments electronically.
Fax: 202-493-2251.
Mail: Send comments to the U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building
[[Page 13707]]
Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC
20590-0001.
Hand Delivery: Deliver to the ``Mail'' address between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2017-
0682; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.,
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains
this proposed AD, the economic evaluation, any comments received, and
other information. The street address for Docket Operations (telephone
800-647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available
in the AD docket shortly after receipt.
For service information identified in this proposed rule, contact
Robinson Helicopter Company, 2901 Airport Drive, Torrance, CA 90505;
telephone (310) 539-0508; fax (310) 539-5198; or at https://www.robinsonheli.com/servelib.htm. You may review the referenced
service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX
76177.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Danny Nguyen, Aerospace Engineer, Los
Angeles ACO Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, FAA, 3960
Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, California 90712; telephone (562) 627-5247;
email [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
We invite you to participate in this rulemaking by submitting
written comments, data, or views. We also invite comments relating to
the economic, environmental, energy, or federalism impacts that might
result from adopting the proposals in this document. The most helpful
comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the
reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. To
ensure the docket does not contain duplicate comments, commenters
should send only one copy of written comments, or if comments are filed
electronically, commenters should submit only one time.
We will file in the docket all comments that we receive, as well as
a report summarizing each substantive public contact with FAA personnel
concerning this proposed rulemaking. Before acting on this proposal, we
will consider all comments we receive on or before the closing date for
comments. We will consider comments filed after the comment period has
closed if it is possible to do so without incurring expense or delay.
We may change this proposal in light of the comments we receive.
Discussion
We propose to adopt a new AD for Robinson Model R66 helicopters,
serial numbers 0003 through 0752, with a tail rotor drive shaft
assembly part number (P/N) D224-3 or D224-4 installed. This proposed AD
would require, within 100 hours time-in-service (TIS), replacing the
forward yoke assembly of the tail rotor drive shaft unless already
accomplished, visually inspecting for sealant, and applying sealant if
needed to prevent seal rotation.
This proposed AD is prompted by two incidents of bearing failure
that stem from a bearing assembly that included a bearing that was
undersized for its housing. Consequently, the bearing was spinning at a
speed that caused excessive heating of the bearing operation and led to
the breakdown of the bearing's grease and ultimately seizure of the
C647-16 bearing.
To correct this condition, Robinson initially specified installing
a temperature recorder on the tail rotor driveshaft bearing assembly
(bearing assembly) and inspecting the temperature recorder during
preflight checks and during each 100-hour inspection. If the bearing
was found running hot, then Robinson advised upgrading the bearing to a
newer design.
Robinson later specified through R66 Service Bulletin SB-20, dated
November 7, 2016, modifying the forward D224-3 and D224-4 tail rotor
drive shaft assemblies by using a kit that has an improved, larger
bearing that spins with less friction. The bulletin also specified
inspecting whether 0.5 inch of sealant was on the junction of the black
seal and bearing outer race and installing sealant if there was less
than 0.5 inch of sealant. Robinson clarified R66 Service Bulletin SB-20
with R66 Service Bulletin SB-20A, dated June 6, 2017, that helicopters
equipped with D224-4 tail rotor drive shaft assemblies and certain
modified D224-3 assemblies do not require being upgraded with the kit.
The actions specified by this AD are intended prevent failure of
the tail rotor driveshaft forward bearing and subsequent loss of
helicopter control.
FAA's Determination
We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all known relevant
information and determined that an unsafe condition exists and is
likely to exist or develop on other products of these same type
designs.
Related Service Information
We reviewed Robinson R66 Service Bulletin SB-14, dated June 25,
2015, which specifies installing a temperature recorder on the bearing
assembly and inspecting the temperature during preflight checks and
during each 100-hour inspection. If the temperature of the bearing is
found running hot, then Robinson advises upgrading the bearing to a
newer design (kit P/N KI-235). This service information also specifies
adding a caution page to the Pilot Operating Handbook regarding the
overheating bearing assemblies.
We also reviewed Robinson R66 Service Bulletin SB-20, dated
November 7, 2016, and Robinson R66 Service Bulletin SB-20A, dated June
6, 2017, which specify upgrading the bearing assembly to the newer
design with kit P/N KI-235 if not previously done. The service
information also contains procedures for inspecting for sealant and
applying sealant to the damper and hanger bearings if needed to prevent
seal rotation.
Lastly, we reviewed Robinson KI-235 R66 TRDS Forward Yoke Assembly
and Hanger Installation Kit Instructions, Revision A, dated June 23,
2015. This information provides instructions for installing the newly
designed forward yoke assembly, P/N D224-5, on the tail rotor drive
shaft.
Proposed AD Requirements
This proposed AD would require, within 100 hours TIS, replacing the
tail rotor drive shaft forward yoke assembly, inspecting the damper and
hanger bearings for sealant, and applying sealant if needed.
Differences Between This Proposed AD and the Service Information
The service information specifies replacing the forward yoke
assembly and applying the sealant to the bearing seals within the next
100 flight hours or by January 31, 2017, whichever comes first. This
proposed AD would not have a calendar time compliance requirement.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this proposed AD would affect 249 helicopters of
U.S. Registry and that labor costs average $85 per work-hour. Based on
these estimates, we expect the following costs:
[[Page 13708]]
Replacing the yoke assembly would require 6 work-hours and
$798 for parts, for a cost of $1,308 per helicopter.
Inspecting for and applying sealant would require 1 work-
hour and $30 for parts, for a cost of $115 per helicopter.
Based on these costs, we expect a total cost of $1,423 per
helicopter and $354,327 for the U.S. operator fleet.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation
Programs,'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's
authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
``Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship
between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
For the reasons discussed, I certify this proposed regulation:
1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order
12866;
2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska to the extent that
it justifies making a regulatory distinction; and
4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
We prepared an economic evaluation of the estimated costs to comply
with this proposed AD and placed it in the AD docket.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
The Proposed Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
Robinson Helicopter Company: Docket No. FAA-2017-0682; Directorate
Identifier 2017-SW-028-AD.
(a) Applicability
This AD applies to Robinson Helicopter Company (Robinson) Model
R66 helicopters, serial numbers 0003 through 0752, with a tail rotor
drive shaft assembly part number (P/N) D224-3 or D224-4 tail rotor
drive shaft assembly installed, certificated in any category.
(b) Unsafe Condition
This AD defines the unsafe condition as failure of a tail rotor
driveshaft forward bearing. This condition could result in failure
of the tail rotor driveshaft and subsequent loss of helicopter
control.
(c) Comments Due Date
We must receive comments by May 29, 2018.
(d) Compliance
You are responsible for performing each action required by this
AD within the specified compliance time unless it has already been
accomplished prior to that time.
(e) Required Actions
Within 100 hours TIS:
(1) Replace the tail rotor drive shaft forward yoke assembly
with a yoke assembly part number D224-5, if not previously done.
(2) Remove the forward inspection plug assembly from the
tailcone and either remove the B322-2 cover from the top of the
third tailcone bay or, if an antenna is installed, remove the
antenna and pull the circuit breaker.
(3) Visually inspect the forward and aft sides of the hanger
bearing and damper bearing for sealant along the junction of the
seal and bearing outer race. If the sealant is less than 0.5 inch in
length, clean the area and apply a minimum 0.5 inch long bead of
polysulfide fuel-resistant sealant at the junction of the seal and
bearing outer race.
(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOC)
(1) The Manager, Los Angeles ACO Branch, FAA, may approve AMOCs
for this AD. Send your proposal to: Danny Nguyen, Aerospace
Engineer, Los Angeles ACO Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, FAA, 3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, California 90712;
telephone (562) 627-5247; email [email protected].
(2) For operations conducted under a 14 CFR part 119 operating
certificate or under 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that you
notify your principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector,
the manager of the local flight standards district office or
certificate holding district office before operating any aircraft
complying with this AD through an AMOC.
(g) Additional Information
For service information identified in this AD, contact Robinson
Helicopter Company, 2901 Airport Drive, Torrance, CA 90505;
telephone (310) 539-0508; fax (310) 539-5198; or at https://www.robinsonheli.com/servelib.htm. You may review a copy of
information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest
Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177.
(h) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6510, Tail Rotor
Drive Shaft.
Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on March 23, 2018.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2018-06449 Filed 3-29-18; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
