EASA 2018-0286

AD retains the requirements of EASA AD 2018-0067, but expands the applicability to include Model 280C helicopters. The AD requires inspections of the hydraulic damper/belt tension shaft rod end assembly.  The AD stemmed from a report of a failed rod end bearing assembly of one of the hydraulic damper assemblies of the main rotor system. Analysis of the rod end revealed corrosion in the root of the threads. This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to cracks in a bearing assembly, possibly resulting in failure of the rod end, loss of a main rotor blade and consequent loss of control of the helicopter.