81-19-02: Main Rotor Yoke

81-19-02 BELL HELICOPTER TEXTRON (BHT): Amendment 39-4208. Applies to all Model 204 and 205 series helicopters certified in all categories (Airworthiness Docket No. 81-ASW-40). To prevent possible failure of main rotor yoke Part Number 204-011-102 (all dash numbers), accomplish the following: a. Unless Bell Helicopter Textron Alert Service Bulletin No. 204-81-11 or 205-81-16, as applicable, has previously been complied with, within 10 days after the effective date of this Airworthiness Directive: (1) Create a component history card for yoke Part Number 204-011-102 (all dash numbers). (2) Record the operating time accumulated on the yoke. If the previous operating time cannot be determined, enter 2,400 hours. (3) Retire yokes with more than 3,300 hours' time on the compliance date of this AD prior to obtaining an additional 300 hours. (4) Retire yokes with less than 3,300 hours' time on the compliance date of the AD on or before attaining 3,600 hours. b. The 3,600-hour life shall continue in effect on all Part Number 204-011-102 yokes. c. Any equivalent method of compliance with this AD must be approved by the Chief, Engineering and Manufacturing Branch, Flight Standards Division, Southwest Region, Federal Aviation Administration. d. In accordance with FAR 21.197, flight is permitted to a base where the requirements of this AD may be accomplished. This amendment becomes effective September 30, 1981.