Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters (Type Certificate Previously Held by Eurocopter France)

We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2013-15-03 for Eurocopter France Model AS350B, AS350BA, AS350B1, AS350B2, AS350B3, AS350C, AS350D, and AS350D1 helicopters. AD 2013-15-03 required inspecting the hydraulic pump drive pulley bearing (bearing) for leaks, rust, overheating, and condition. This new AD adds a requirement to grease the bearing and inspect for bronze particles in the grease, and changes the inspection and inspection intervals of the bearing until it is replaced with an improved bearing. This AD was prompted by additional reports of hydraulic pump drive belt failure caused by bearing seizures. The actions of this AD are intended to prevent an unsafe condition on these products.