The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
Robinson Helicopter Company Model R44 and R44 II helicopters that have a Simplex
Manufacturing Company’s Model 244 spray system installed on them by
Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) SR00286BO. The AD will become effective April 16 and applies to Simplex Model 244 spray systems with serial
numbers 0045 through 0178. Early models have a metal flanged fitting that is
not affected by the AD. The AD can be seen here.
The AD was prompted by several reports of in-flight failures
of an elbow pump fitting. This failure can cause uncontrolled discharge of
spray from the pump output port, which is in direct alignment with the engine
air intake. This can lead to the engine ingesting spray which could result in
an in-flight engine shutdown.
The AD requires that before each flight the spray system
pump fitting should be visually inspected for signs of stress, fatigue,
cracking and evidence of leaking by following Simplex Alert Service Bulletin
ASB2017-001. Within three months, or before further flight if any stress, fatigue,
cracking or leaking is found, the pumping fitting should be replaced with an
updated part according to Simplex Service Letter SL2017-017, Revision B, dated
March 14, 2018. A pump outlet cover must also be installed at this same time
according to Simplex Service Letter SL2017-030, Initial Release, dated March
12, 2018. The spray system must then be pressurized and visually inspected to
verify the new fitting is functioning correctly and there are no signs of stress,
cracking, fatigue or leaking.
 for
Robinson Helicopter Company Model R44 and R44 II helicopters that have a Simplex
Manufacturing Company’s Model 244 spray system installed on them by
Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) SR00286BO. The AD will become effective April 16 and applies to Simplex Model 244 spray systems with serial
numbers 0045 through 0178. Early models have a metal flanged fitting that is
not affected by the AD.){kind=small}
