CHAPTER 2

INSPECTION

Section Title Page

2.000 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.1
2.100 General Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.1
2.110 Ball and Roller Bearings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.1
2.120 Push-Pull Tubes, Rod Ends, and Spherical Bearings . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.2
2.121 Push-Pull Tubes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.2
2.122 Rod Ends and Spherical Bearings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.2
2.125 Elastomeric Bearings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.4
2.130 Telatemp Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.6
2.200 Ground and Flight Check for 100-Hour / Annual Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.7
2.205 Ground Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.7
2.210 Run Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.9
2.220 Flight Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.11
2.230 Shutdown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.11
2.300 Airframe Preparation for 100-Hour / Annual Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.13
2.400 100-Hour / Annual Airframe Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.13
2.410 Inspection Procedures and Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.13
2.500 Special Inspections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.39
2.501 Upper and Lower Clutch Actuator Bearings Inspection . . . . . . . . . . 2.39
2.502 C181 Lower Bearing Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.39
2.503 C184 Upper Bearing Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.40
2.507 V-Belt Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.41
2.508 Lower Sheave V-Belt Wear Pattern Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.43
2.510 Tail Skid Strike . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.45
2.520 Tail Rotor Strike . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.48
2.530 Main Rotor Strike . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.49
2.540 Rotor/Engine Overspeed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.50
2.550 Hard Landing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.51
2.560 Penetrant Inspection of C020 Upper Steel Tube Frame . . . . . . . . . 2.53
2.561 Corrosion on C020 Upper Steel Tube Frame . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.54
2.570 Volcanic Ash Recommendations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.55

JUN 2014 Page 2.i

 CHAPTER 2

INSPECTION (Continued)

Section Title Page

2.580 Windshield Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.56
2.590 Lightning Strike . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.56A
2.600 12-Year Inspection and Limited Overhaul Requirements . . . . . . . . . 2.57
2.610 Inspection Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.57
2.620 (Reserved) 2.58
2.630 Component Inspection Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.59
2.700 2200-Hour Overhaul Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.60
2.710 Inspection Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.60

Page 2.ii JUN 2014

 CHAPTER 2

INSPECTION

2.000 Introduction

The R44 helicopter must be inspected periodically to verify it is in airworthy condition.

Required inspection intervals are maximum 100 hours time-in-service or 12 calendar months
(annually), whichever occurs first; the inspection interval may be extended up to 10 hours,
without accumulation, if allowed by local regulations. Preventive maintenance is required
between scheduled inspections. Fluid leaks, discoloration, dents, scratches, nicks, cracks,
galling, chafing, fretting, and corrosion all warrant further investigation. Unairworthy items
must be replaced or repaired as allowed by Robinson Helicopter Company. This section
contains procedures for performing the required periodic airframe inspections.

2.100 General Procedures

When required, magnetic particle inspection may be performed in accordance with ASTM E
1444 and MIL-STD-1907. Fluorescent penetrant inspection may be performed in accordance
with ASTM E 1417 and MIL-STD-1907. Unless otherwise specified, the following general
procedures apply to R44 inspection.

2.110 Ball and Roller Bearings

The first indication of bearing failure is usually an increase in bearing noise. Noise
will almost always start several hours before bearing failure or any increase in bearing
temperature. Listen to drive system during start-up and shutdown. A failing bearing will
produce a loud whine, rumble, growl, or siren sound. Upon hearing an unusual noise,
thoroughly inspect bearings before further flight. A failing bearing may have a distorted
seal or be exuding a large amount of grease. Do not rely on Telatemps to detect failing
bearings as temperature increase may occur only seconds before bearing disintegrates.
Refer to Section 2.501 for bearing inspection and lubrication.

The failure of either actuator bearing in flight could cause loss of power to the rotor
system and could result in a serious accident. The actuator upper roller bearing is on
the clutch shaft aft of the upper sheave; the actuator lower roller bearing is on the
fanshaft aft of the lower sheave. Just before complete failure of an actuator bearing,
the clutch light may flicker constantly (on and off in less than one second). This should
not be confused with its normal on-off retensioning in flight (on for 1-8 seconds then
off). Flight should not be resumed until cause of the flickering clutch light has been
determined.

DEC 2011 Page 2.1

 2.120 Push-Pull Tubes, Rod Ends, and Spherical Bearings

2.121 Push-Pull Tubes

1. Nicks, cuts, or scratches in tube not more than 0.010 inch deep and not more
than 1/4 of tube circumference may be polished out in lengthwise direction using
320-grit or finer wet-or-dry abrasive paper and 1-inch minimum blend radius.
Replace tube if depth exceeds these limits.

2. If tube is dented or flattened more than 5 percent of its diameter, it must be

replaced.

2.122 Rod Ends and Spherical Bearings (see Figure 2-1)

1. Maximum axial play: 0.020 inch

Maximum radial play: 0.010 inch

2. Looseness between bearing outer race and rod end housing is not permitted.

3. Rod ends not riveted in place must block passage of 0.020 inch diameter wire
through the witness hole, if provided.

4. Rod end jam nuts and palnuts must be torqued per Section 1.320 and torque
striped, per Figure 2-1, at the most visible position for pre-flight inspection.
Torque stripe must extend across nuts to both rod end shank and push-pull tube
(or pitch link barrel, yoke, support, strut, etc.). Torque stripes are subject to
deterioration and must be periodically renewed.

5. Refer to Figure 2-1A. Rod ends must be centered, or positioned, to allow as

much push-pull tube or link rotational movement as possible without binding.

CAUTION

Teflon-lined bearings must not be lubricated or solvent-

cleaned.

Page 2.2 DEC 2011

 2.410 Inspection Procedures and Checklist (continued)

3. Remove Forward Tunnel Covers (3A & 3B), Cyclic Stop Cover (3C), Inboard
Collective Cover (3D) and Forward Belly Panel (3E) (continued)
Cyclic Friction: Check for excessive play or looseness in links and rod ends
connected to cyclic stick. Verify no excessive flaring at either end of C130-
2 spacer.
Cyclic Push-Pull Tube and Torque Tube: Inspect C319 torque tube paying
special attention to area around blocks and end of torque tube for cracks.
Inspect C121-1 push-pull tube rod end palnut and jam nut for tightness.
Check witness holes on push-pull tubes. Check rod ends and bearings for
excessive play and looseness. Check accessible portions of cyclic push-
pull tube and torque tube for defects, including scratches. Pay particular
attention to top of torque tube immediately below C348-1 anchor assembly.
Inspect all nuts and bolts in cyclic controls for rotation and looseness.
Tail Rotor Push-Pull Tube: Inspect accessible portions of C121-9 tail rotor
push-pull tube. Look for defects such as cracks, bends, scratches, or chafing.
Check rod ends for excessive play and looseness.
Collective Friction and Stop: Inspect collective stop condition; no nicks, cuts
or scratches are allowed. Check collective friction lever for security and
operation. Move collective up and down and verify no bending or binding of
stop. Verify collective boot’s lace cannot entangle stop.
Throttle Overtravel Spring: Inspect operation of overtravel spring while
operating throttle. It should move freely without any binding or jerkiness.
Check play in upper and lower rod ends. Check rod ends for binding.
Wiring Harness: Inspect for chafing and clearance from controls.
Pitot and Static Lines: Inspect pitot and static lines for security and any
evidence of cracking, chafing, pinching or kinking from sharp bends. Open
drains and check for moisture; close drains.
Elastic Trim Cord(s): With cyclic forward-right, feel forward elastic trim
cord(s) for voids which may indicate broken strands.
Heater Hose: Check heater hose for collapsed areas and chafing.
Fasteners and Torque Stripes: Inspect condition and verify security of all
fasteners. Renew deteriorated torque stripes per Figure 2-1.
4. Remove Outboard Collective Cover (4A), Collective Torque Tube Cover (4B),
Tray (4C), Mid Tunnel Covers (4D & 4E), Aft Tunnel Covers (4F & 4G), Aft
Belly Cover Panel (4H), and Rear Console (4I, ENG ships only)

NOTE

If radio antenna is installed on removed panel, disconnect antenna

lead and corresponding ground wire. Pull respective radio circuit
breaker and tag circuit breaker with “antenna removed”.

JUN 2014 Page 2.17

 2.410 Inspection Procedures and Checklist (continued)

4. Remove Outboard Collective Cover (4A), Collective Torque Tube Cover (4B),
Tray (4C), Mid Tunnel Covers (4D & 4E), Aft Tunnel Covers (4F & 4G), Aft
Belly Cover Panel (4H), and Rear Console (4I, ENG ships only) (continued)
Collective Stick: Inspect condition of collective stick. Inspect all welds for
cracks. Inspect C328-1 connecting rod assembly giving special attention to
points of attachment. Inspect governor motor and governor motor arm for
looseness or binding. Inspect collective-activated micro switch for cracks or
loose wires.
Collective Stick Torque Tube: Verify no corrosion pitting. Apply a corrosion-
preventative compound such as LPS 2, ACF-50, or Corrosion-X to any
unpainted, phosphate-coated area while avoiding contaminating governor
friction clutch (a foam-type applicator works well). Ensure interior of open-
end “box” structures at inboard attach point and at A205 fork connection
are also treated.
Aft End of Cyclic Torque Tube and Yoke Assembly: Inspect torque tube
and yoke, paying special attention to area around blocks and end of torque
tube for cracks. Check play in bellcrank bearings per Section 2.120. Inspect
swaged bearing for movement in yoke.
Aft End of Cyclic Push-Pull Tube (C121-1) and Lower Ends of Vertical Push-
Pull Tubes (C121-7): Inspect push-pull tubes for cracks. Check rod end jam
nuts and palnuts for tightness and rod ends for play. Check rod end bearings
for looseness. Inspect fork assembly areas. Check bearings for looseness.
Check between bearings and swage for evidence of fretting.
Aft End of (C121-19) Tail Rotor Push-Pull Tube and Lower Bearing: Check
witness hole. Check lower bellcrank bearing for play. Inspect all welds on
support assembly for lower bellcrank and inspect surrounding sheet metal
area for cracks.
Collective Push-Pull Tube (C121-19): Check for binding or nicks. Check
witness holes. Check jam nuts and palnut for tightness and rod end for play.
Collective Friction Assembly: Check jam nuts and palnuts for tightness and
rod ends for play. Inspect all welds on bellcrank support assembly and
inspect surrounding sheet metal for cracks and corrosion.
Collective Spring Assembly (Manual Controls Only): Move collective up and
down and verify no binding or cracking. Spring coils must not touch when
collective is full down. Verify jam nut and palnut tightness. Verify rod ends
play within limits. Verify guide rods are greased. If required by Section
1.101, service assembly per Section 8.221.
Throttle Control Linkage: Remove throttle control arm cover if cover is not
transparent (under aft left seat [O-540], or inside tunnel [IO-540], at firewall).
Inspect condition. Verify throttle control clearance to installed equipment
and adjacent structure. Verify proper installation and security. Install cover.
Fuel Valve and Fuel Line: Inspect fuel line for damage and valve fittings for
leakage (leakage is indicated by a blue or green residue, depending on fuel
used, or odor of fuel). Verify no chafing of fuel lines.
Fuel Valve-to-Knob Torque Tube: Inspect condition. Verify attaching security.

Page 2.18 JUN 2014

 2.410 Inspection Procedures and Checklist (continued)

5. Remove Aft Seat Back Assemblies (5)

Wiring: Check wiring for security and proper installation.
Pitot and Static Lines: Check for security, chafing, and kinks.
Air Conditioning Refrigerant Lines (if installed): Verify security & no damage.
Evaporator Drain Tubes and Valve (if installed): Verify tubes are unobstructed.
Place a container under sediment-tube protruding from bottom of tee-fitting
into right-aft baggage compartment. Remove plug from sediment tube
and allow any accumulated moisture and debris to drain. Reinstall plug.
Simultaneously squeeze drain tube and sediment tube near tee-fitting and
verify check-valve ball moves up momentarily.
Strobe Power Supply & Alternator Control Unit: Inspect strobe power supply
and alternator control unit wiring. Inspect mounting panels for cracks.
Blind Encoder & Governor Controller: Inspect blind encoder and governor
controller wiring. Inspect mounting panels for cracks.
Fasteners and Torque Stripes: Inspect condition and verify security of all
fasteners. Renew deteriorated torque stripes per Figure 2-1.
6. Remove Engine Aft (6D), Belly (6C), and both side (6A & 6B) Cowlings
Vertical Firewall: Inspect vertical firewall condition, especially around
structural attachment points, verify no cracks, buckling or wrinkles.
Fuse(s) and Fuse Holder(s) (if installed on vertical firewall): Verify security
and no corrosion. Verify correct fuses: -66 wire requires AGC-3 fuse, -1601/-
1602 wires require AGC-5 fuse. If installed, -1226 wire requires AGC-3 fuse.
Wiring: Verify security, proper installation, and no deterioration.
Electric Fuel Pump (IO-540 only): Verify security, proper installation,
unobstructed drain tube, and no leakage.
Fuel Line & Hose(s): Inspect condition. Verify security, proper installation,
no leakage, & (IO-540 only) good condition of spirap insulation on fuel line
between firewall & gascolator. If deteriorated, replace MS3367-5-9 ty-raps
securing fuel hoses to clamps (reference R44 SB-67).
Lower Steel Tube Frames: Thoroughly inspect lower steel tube structure for
corrosion and inspect all welds for cracks. Ensure frames are not chafed by
wires, hoses, clamps, etc.
Engine Cooling Panels: Inspect cooling panels for cracks and missing
fasteners.
Oil Cooler(s): Inspect oil cooler(s) and fittings for damage, leaks, cleanliness,
and security. Check oil cooler mounting area(s) for cracks.

JUN 2014 Page 2.19

 2.410 Inspection Procedures and Checklist (continued)

6. Remove Engine Aft (6D), Belly (6C), and both side (6A & 6B) Cowlings (continued)
Oil Lines: Inspect entire length of all oil lines and verify no cracks, abrasion,
or broken clamps. Verify clearance; wires, ty-raps, and structure must not
contact lines.
Gascolator: With fuel valve off, remove and clean gascolator bowl and filter
screen. Verify no deterioration of gasket. If gascolator bowl is secured by
threaded collar and ring, lightly lube threads and ring with A257-6 grease.
Reassemble and turn fuel valve on. Safety wire after ensuring no leaks
occur. Verify drain valve is secure and torque-striped.
Mixture Control: Verify mixture control moves mixture control arm stop to
stop. Inspect condition and verify security of mixture control cable clamps
on bracket; push and pull cable housing to ensure it does not slip in clamps.
Inspect condition and verify security of mixture control cable inner wire
attachment to mixture control arm. Ensure freedom of rotation between
mixture control arm and inner wire retention fitting (bolt) when arm moves.
Verify mixture control safety spring is properly installed (so spring force
holds mixture control arm at full-rich position if inner wire breaks).
Throttle Correlation Rigging: Check per § 10.150 and adjust as required.
Full-Throttle Switch Rigging: Check per § 14.1020 and adjust as required.
Air Box & Alternate Air Door: Ensure carburetor heat slider valve (if applicable)
moves fully from stop to stop. Replace air filter (lubricating IO-540 air filter
rubber with A257-8 rubber lubricant will facilitate sealing). Check air box for
condition and security. Verify spring-loaded alternate air door opens without
binding and closes completely.
Engine Air Inlet Hose: Verify correct installation & security. Verify no rips,
holes, or collapsed areas. Ensure hose is not chafing frame.
Carburetor Heat Scoop and Hose (O-540 engines only): Inspect for condition
and security.
Heater Hose: Inspect for condition and security.
Battery and Battery Box (alternate locations under upper console or under left,
front seat): Check cable terminals for cracks. Check each cell electrolyte
for quantity and specific gravity if equipped with non-sealed battery. As
required, perform capacity test per manufacturer’s instructions or replace
battery. Verify security and no obstructions in drain tube.
7. Open Cowling Doors (7A), Remove Tailcone Cowling (7B) & Mast Fairing (9)
Cowling Door: Inspect hinges and latches for condition and security.
Tailcone cowling: Verify no cracks, air inlet obstructions, or loose rivets.
Electrical and Antenna Wires: Inspect condition. Verify security and no
chafing, kinks or tight bends.
MRGB Input Yoke: Inspect condition. Verify security and operating clearance.
Verify security of magnets.

Page 2.20 JUN 2014

 2.410 Inspection Procedures and Checklist (continued)

9. Tail Rotor Gearbox and Tail Rotor

Input Shaft Yoke: Inspect flange and weld for cracks and corrosion.
Input Seal: Inspect for leakage.
Gearbox: Inspect general condition. Look for leakage. Check oil quantity
and cleanliness through sight gage and adjust or flush as required. Check
gearbox-to-tailcone mounting security. Inspect output shaft for nicks,
scratches and corrosion. Check safety wire on applicable gearbox bolts.
Check Telatemp.

NOTE

At 500 hours time-in-service or annually, whichever occurs

first, remove chip detector and clean varnish from detector’s
magnetic probe and adjacent metal body (a toothbrush
dampened with solvent works well). Also, drain and flush
gearboxes at intervals not to exceed 500 hours time-in-service
(refer to Section 1.101).

Pitch Control Assembly and C121-17 Push-Pull Tube: Check pitch control
assembly for free movement throughout its entire range and for looseness
on output shaft (0.25 inch maximum rotational play measured at pitch link
attach bolt). Inspect bellcrank for cracks and ensure free movement. Pay
special attention to spherical bearing atop stud protruding from underside of
pitch control; it is permissible to have a single radial crack in the spherical
bearing ball. Inspect aft end of C121-17 push-pull tube for cracks and check
rod end for excessive looseness (refer to R44 SB-43A).
Pitch Links: Check rod ends for excessive looseness. If equipped with one-
piece pitch links, disconnect and rotate inboard end outboard as required to
obtain maximum service life.
Tail Rotor Blades: Inspect blade surfaces for excessive erosion, nicks,
scratches, cracks, and corrosion. Check tail rotor blade root fitting bearings
for fretting and looseness. Loose bearing outer race in root fitting is
unairworthy, requiring replacement of blade. C029-1 blades only: remove
tip covers, inspect for debris and corrosion, & reinstall covers. C029-1 or
C029-2 blades only: Inspect tail rotor blades for fatigue cracks per R44 SB-
83. Refinish blades per Section 9.460 if excessive erosion is found.
Hub Plates and Hub: Inspect for cracks and corrosion, paying special attention
to areas around blade and hub mounting bolts. Ensure teeter hinge bearing
outer races move with hub and bearing inner balls and retaining nut and bolt
remain stationary when hub is teetered. Hub should move freely on bearings
without stiffness or jerkiness. Check teeter hinge bearings for excessive
play. For elastomeric bearings inspect per Section 2.125.
Fasteners and Torque Stripes: Inspect condition and verify security of all
fasteners. Renew deteriorated torque stripes per Figure 2-1.

JUN 2014 Page 2.29

 2.410 Inspection Procedures and Checklist (continued)

10. Open Mast Fairing (9)

Mast Fairing: Inspect condition, especially where stiffeners intersect ribs.
Lower Swashplate Scissors: Inspect condition of scissors. Check rod end
and bearing play. Check jam nut.
Vertical Push-Pull Tubes: Inspect for general condition and corrosion. For
manual controls, inspect push-pull tube sleeves at rollers and guide.
Rod Ends: Check push-pull tube rod ends per Section 2.120.
Plastic Rollers and Guide (manual controls): Inspect plastic rollers and
guide for cleanliness, security, and deterioration.
Pitot Tube: Inspect pitot line and tube, giving special attention to connecting
area, for bending, cracking and kinking. Verify pitot tube elbow drain hole
is unobstructed.
Fuel Tank Vents: Inspect condition and security of fuel tank vent tube
clamps. Ensure pitot line is not chafing fuel vent tubes. Check tube
connections. Verify tubes are unobstructed and are not kinked, pinched,
or chafing.
Mast Fairing Ribs: Inspect for cracks especially around mast tube
attachments.
11. Rotor Hub Area
Swashplate Lower Scissors: Inspect condition. Inspect rod ends per
Section 2.120. Verify security.
Swashplate Upper Scissors: Inspect condition. Inspect rod ends and
spherical bearings per Section 2.120. Measure scissors play per Figure 2-9.
Observe scissor linkage while having someone raise and lower collective.
Verify bolt, journals (or spherical bearing balls and spacers), and arm rotate
together at each scissor linkage pivot. Verify operating clearance.
Swashplate Slider Tube: Inspect condition. Verify no cracks at rivet holes
or corrosion on base. Verify no damage to, or wear through, anodized tube
surface.
Remove Swashplate Boot Lower Ty-rap: Lift boot from swashplate. Using
an inspection mirror, inspect area between main rotor drive shaft and inside
of slider tube. Verify no corrosion and no debris. Verify no boot damage.
Swashplate: Inspect condition. Verify 0.020 inch maximum radial play
between swashplate ball and slider tube. Rotate rotor by hand and verify
operating clearance and no rough or dry bearings.
Swashplate Tilting Friction: Observe swashplate ball from below and have
someone move collective stick slowly up & down. Verify swashplate ball
immediately moves with swashplate when swashplate reverses direction.
Movement of swashplate without attendant ball movement indicates axial
play between ball and swashplate; adjust swashplate tilting friction per
Section 8.413.

Page 2.30 JUN 2014

 2.410 Inspection Procedures and Checklist (continued)

11. Rotor Hub Area (continued)

Install Swashplate Boot Lower Ty-rap: Verify correct boot position and
security and no boot damage.
Hub: Inspect condition. Verify no nicks, scratches, gouges, or corrosion. If
main rotor imbalance is suspected, check teeter and coning hinge friction per
Section 9.124. Verify no brown or black residue (indicates bearing wear).
Hinge Bolts: Inspect condition. Verify cotter pins are in place and secure.
Verify bolt heads and nuts are torque striped to thrust washers.
Pitch Links and Rod Ends: Inspect condition. Inspect rod ends per Section
2.120, including centering. Verify security, including jamnut tightness and
proper safety wiring.
Fasteners and Torque Stripes: Inspect condition and verify security of all
fasteners. Renew deteriorated torque stripes per Figure 2-1.

FIGURE 2-9 MEASURING UPPER SWASHPLATE ROTATIONAL PLAY

(Identify scissors bearing type and measure as shown)

JUN 2014 Page 2.31

 2.410 Inspection Procedures and Checklist (continued)

12. Main Rotor Blades

Boots: Inspect condition. Verify no boot damage or oil leakage. Verify
proper boot position and security. Verify sufficient clearance from hub
assembly through full control travel.
Blade Spindles & Root Fittings: Inspect area for damage per § 9.133. Verify
proper installation and security of visible fasteners. Renew deteriorated
torque stripes per Figure 2-1.
C016-7 Main Rotor Blade Inspection: Remove tip covers. Remove corrosion
and loose paint from tip covers, blade tips, and skin-to-spar bond lines. Epoxy
prime, or prime and paint, any exposed bare metal on tip covers, blade tips,
and skin-to-spar bond lines. Using an AN970-4 washer or 1965-or-later
U.S. quarter-dollar coin, tap-test critical bond areas and verify no dull or
hollow sounds. Visually inspect critical bond areas and verify no separation.
Install tip covers, ensuring cover edges are flush with blade profile.
C016-2 or C016-5 Main Rotor Blade Bond Inspection: Perform R44 SB-
72A or subsequent.
Main Rotor Blade Inspection: Inspect skins and doublers for scratches and
corrosion per § 9.131. Inspect blades for dents and local deformations
per § 9.132 and for voids per § 9.134. As required, wax blades with
soft cleaning cloths using carnauba-type wax (such as SC Johnson® Paste
Wax). Ensure tip cover and blade tip drain holes are unobstructed.

WARNING

Structural damage may occur if compressed air is applied to blade

tip drain holes.

FIGURE 2-10 MAIN ROTOR BLADE TIP AND TIP COVER

Page 2.32 JUN 2014

 2.410 Inspection Procedures and Checklist (continued)

18. Special Equipment (if installed)

Spectrolab Searchlight: Verify light starts and cooling fan operates. Verify
searchlight steers smoothly in azimuth and elevation. For slaved units, turn
on slaving and verify light follows nose gimbal approximately.
FM Radios: Verify radios transmit and receive properly and control head
programs radios properly.
Video Tape Recorder: Verify all video tape recorder modes operate properly
and remote control correctly controls modes.
Overhead Light: Verify overhead light on/off.
Transmit and Intercom Switches: Verify proper operation of special transmit
and intercom switches.
Talent Light: Verify talent light on/off, acceptable friction.
Micro Cameras: Verify all micro cameras are selectable from video switcher
and produce focused, upright images on monitors.
TV Tuner: Verify TV tuner receives broadcasts (video clear on monitors,
audio clear in headset).
Microwave Antenna: Verify omnidirectional microwave antenna extends/
retracts properly. Verify up/down indicator lights function properly.
Electromagnetic and Radio Frequency Interference: With all special
equipment turned on, check for EMI/RFI with tach, COM, intercom,
compass, or other systems.
19. Life-limited Parts, Component Overhaul and Retirement, ADs, & SBs
Life-Limited Parts: Replace life-limited parts that have reached maximum
service life per § 3.300. Verify components installed correspond with
helicopter maintenance record and have sufficient time remaining for
projected operations.
Component Overhaul: Replace components that have reached maximum
service before overhaul per § 3.100. Verify components installed correspond
with helicopter maintenance record and have sufficient time remaining for
projected operations.
Component Retirement: Replace components that have reached maximum
service life per § 3.100. Verify components installed correspond with
helicopter maintenance record and have sufficient time remaining for
projected operations.
Airworthiness Directives: Verify applicable airframe, engine, and accessory
Airworthiness Directives (ADs) have been performed according to AD
compliance procedures. Some aircraft may be affected by ADs that require
recurring inspections at less than 100-hour or annual intervals. Recent
U.S. Airworthiness Directives are available online at www.faa.gov.

JUN 2014 Page 2.37

 2.410 Inspection Procedures and Checklist (continued)

19. Life-limited Parts, Component Overhaul and Retirement, ADs, & SBs (continued)
Service Bulletins: Verify applicable airframe, engine, and accessory Service
Bulletins (SBs) have been complied with according to manufacturers’
instructions. Some aircraft may be affected by SBs that require recurring
inspections at less than 100-hour or annual intervals. RHC Service Bulletins
are available online at www.robinsonheli.com, under the Publications tab.
20. Required Documents and Placards
Documents: Check that required documents (Airworthiness Certificate,
Registration, applicable Radio Station License, Pilot’s Operating Handbook,
Equipment List/Weight & Balance Data) are on board, legible, and current.
Placards: Verify required placards are properly installed, legible, and current.
Refer to Pilot’s Operating Handbook Section 2 for placard requirements.
21. Inspection and Access Covers
Foreign Objects Removed: Verify all tools, loose hardware, rags, and other
foreign objects are removed from helicopter.
Covers Closed and Secure: Install/close all inspection and access covers
removed in preceding steps. Verify security of all access covers.
Clipper I Airbox Sealed: Ensure air box cover perimeter is sealed with
aluminum tape (Clipper I models only).
22. Maintenance Records
Maintenance Records: Verify maintenance records are accurate, legible,
and complete. Enter maintenance performed (such as part replacement,
equipment adjustments, servicing, and lubrication) and inspection data.
Data must include a description of (or reference to data acceptable to the
Administrator) the work performed, date, helicopter total time in service,
signature, certificate type and certificate number of person approving
aircraft for return to service.

Inspection Procedures and Checklist completed:

Mechanic’s signature: Date:

Page 2.38 JUN 2014

 FIGURE 2-15 UPPER FRAME INSPECTION

2.560 Penetrant Inspection of C020 Upper Steel Tube Frame

1. Carefully clean all paint, primer, oil, grease, etc. from steel tube structure around and
adjacent to four tailcone mounts (see Figure 2-15).

2. Apply epoxy paint remover and allow the softening action to complete (temperature
affects time required).

3. Remove softened paint by hand using a wire brush. Be sure steel structure is perfectly
clean before application of dye penetrant.

JUN 2014 Page 2.53

 2.560 Penetrant Inspection of C020 Upper Steel Tube Frame (continued)

4. Carefully check for cracks in and around each weld bead and along each steel supporting
tube for at least two inches away from weld beads. Replace any frame exhibiting crack
indications.

5. If no cracks are found, clean all inspection materials from steel tubing.

6. Prime with good quality zinc chromate or epoxy primer and allow adequate drying time.

7. Refinish area with gray epoxy top coat or equivalent.

FIGURE 2-16 UPPER FRAME CORROSION REMOVAL LIMITATIONS

2.561 Corrosion on C020 Upper Steel Tube Frame

1. Polish out corrosion on steel frame tube members.

a. Polish out light surface corrosion on frame members using Scotchbrite or 400 grit
wet-or-dry sandpaper subject to dimensional limitations shown in Figure 2-16.

b. Polish out corrosion pitting using 320-grit wet-or-dry sandpaper subject to

dimensional limitations shown in Figure 2-16.

NOTE

For large areas of corrosion, it may be necessary to remove

entire upper frame from aircraft and strip off paint to adequately
determine extent of damage.

2. Prime bare metal with a good quality zinc chromate or epoxy primer.

3. Refinish area with gray epoxy top coat or equivalent.

Page 2.54 JUN 2014

 2.570 Volcanic Ash Recommendations

Flight in visible volcanic ash conditions (“ash cloud”) is detrimental to the helicopter and
should be avoided. If helicopter has been operated in visible volcanic ash conditions:

1. Refer to Lycoming SI 1530. Wearing suitable protective equipment, use vacuum

cleaner followed by compressed air to remove as much debris as possible. Do not use
compressed air near main rotor blade drain holes.

2. Refer to R44 or R44 II Pilot’s Operating Handbook (POH) Section 8. Thoroughly clean,
wash, and rinse helicopter, including inner circumference of drive belts.

3. Remove main rotor blade tip covers and clean blade tips.

4. Using 10X magnification, visually inspect any exposed main rotor blade skin-to-spar bond
line (adhesive) for gaps (empty space between skin and spar). Blade is unairworthy if
any gap, including “pin hole(s)”, is detected in the bond line. Refinish blade as required.

5. Inspect condition of drive belt sheaves. Replace any sheave having corrosion pitting,
flaking, wear thru metalized or anodized coatings, roughness, or sharp ridges. Replace
drive belts if either sheave has sharp ridge(s) on drive belt contact surface.

6. Disconnect alternator drive belt from alternator. Spin alternator pulley by hand and
verify rotor bearings and brushes operate smoothly; repair alternator as required if
roughness or unusual noise is encountered (volcanic ash can enter via unfiltered cooling
air). Inspect alternator and ring gear support pulleys and verify no wear steps; replace
alternator belt and pulley(s) if wear steps exist. Perform Lycoming SI 1129B alternator
belt tension check and adjust as required.

7. Clean airbox interior and:

a. Inspect air filter and replace as required.
b. Inspect induction system downstream of air filter (a clean, white glove is beneficial).
If volcanic ash is found then:
i. Clean induction system, disassembling as required.
ii. Disassemble carburetor or fuel injection servo, as applicable, inspect for internal
contamination, and overhaul as required.
iii. Perform Lycoming SI 1191A Cylinder Compression check.
iv. Perform Lycoming SB 388C Procedure to Determine Exhaust Valve and Guide
Condition.
v. Inspect spark plug condition; service as required.
c. On fuel injected engines, perform Lyciming SI 1275C Cleaning Fuel Injection Nozzles
(volcanic ash can enter atomization screens).

8. Remove each magneto’s distributor gear inspection plug and inspect visible internal
portion for contamination; overhaul magnetos if volcanic ash is found inside (magneto
vent plugs are unfiltered).

9. Inspect engine oil condition. Regardless of oil time-in-service if oil smells bad, is opaque
(or is not obviously brown), or if particulates are detectable on the dipstick, change
engine oil & oil filter, inspect suction screen and old oil filter, and perform Lycoming SI
1191A Cylinder Compression check if not previously accomplished in step 6.

JUN 2014 Page 2.55

 2.580 Windshield Inspection

Inspect windshield for cracks and crazing adjacent to retainer strips using the following
criteria. If cracks exceed these limits, replace windshields per Section 4.120.

FIGURE 2-17 WINDSHIELD INSPECTION

Page 2.56 JUN 2014

 2.590 Lightning Strike

Lightning strikes are extremely rare for helicopters operating in VFR conditions.

If a lightning strike does occur, RHC recommends performing a 100-hour inspection per
Section 2.400 and following recommendations for aircraft struck by lightning per Lycoming
Service Bulletin No. 401.

High voltage that is well conducted through the aircraft structure will dissipate and cause
minimal damage. High voltage that is not well conducted through the aircraft structure can
result in excessive heat, which can bake, burn, char, or even melt certain materials. Heat
damage may or may not be detectable by visual inspection. A component may not exhibit
obvious damage, but temperatures above 300º F can alter the strength of some materials
and thus affect a component's service life and airworthiness.

Visually inspect main rotor blades, landing gear, drive train, airframe, and flight controls
thoroughly for obvious damage such as electrical arcing or burns, pitting, or cracking.
Particular attention should be given to rod ends, journals, etc., where the conductive path
is most susceptible. If obvious damage is detected in any of the above-mentioned systems,
additional components may require replacement. Contact RHC Technical Support with
detailed documentation for further guidance prior to approving aircraft for return to service.

JUN 2014 Page 2.56A

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