Robinson R44 – Pitch Link Rod End Failure

Submitted by: CS

I had been off for about 2 weeks, I preflighted on my first day back and found this main rotor pitch link very corroded. So much in fact after the mechanic took it off you could shake it and the bearing would fall out. I probably would’ve had about 20 minutes or so before total failure a Robinson mechanic and I had discussed later.

Additional Photos

Robinson R44 - Pitch Link Rod End Failure

Maintenance Notes

Outcome: Grounded

The mechanic working on the helicopter was not very experienced with helicopters, he was an experienced airplane mechanic so he knew the engine well, but not much else. Moral of the story protect yourself at all times do not leave your life in someone else’s hands.

These notes reflect reported observations at the time of submission and are provided for educational purposes only. They are not a determination of airworthiness and do not constitute maintenance or regulatory advice.

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