AD 2000-04-15 Amendment 39-11598

This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) applicable to Bell Helicopter Textron Canada (BHTC) Model 222, 222B, 222U, and 230 helicopters. This action requires inspecting the swashplate assembly drive pin (drive pin) for damage or looseness, torque testing to determine if the interference fit between the drive pin and rotating ring (ring) is adequate, and replacing any unairworthy drive pin. This amendment is prompted by an accident investigation that revealed fatigue failure of a drive pin. The actions specified in this AD are intended to prevent fatigue failure of a drive pin and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.