Category: Robinson R66

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Several R66 life-limited parts were recently increased from 2000 hours to 4000 hours maximum service life. The previous KI-6602 R66 2000-Hour Inspection Kit has been replaced by the new KI-6606 2000-Hour Inspection Kit, to better align with the longer life-limits.

RHC has obtained FAA approval of revised airworthiness limitations for the Robinson R66. Several life-limited parts increase from 2000 hours to 4000 hours maximum service life. For some parts, the 4000-hour life applies only to the latest revision. For other parts, the 4000-hour life applies retroactively.

The revised airworthiness limitations also include an increase in calendar life for the latest-revision main and tail rotor blades from 12 years to 15 years. RHCparts recommends a thorough review of the Robinson R66 Maintenance Manual – Chapter 4 to obtain the necessary revision details of parts to ensure the correct limitations are applied.

R66 S/N 1411 is the first production helicopter to be equipped with all of the revised, life-limited parts.

The components listed below were previously included in KI-6602 but now must be ordered separately. When ordering the new KI-6606 Kit, review helicopter maintenance records and order the following parts and/or appropriate sub-components as required:

• D079-1 Tail Rotor Guard
• D224-4 Tail Rotor Drive Shaft Assembly (inc. D196-1 Tail Rotor Drive Shaft)
• F001-11R Main Rotor Gearbox Sub-Assembly Includes:
      C017-6R Main Rotor Swashplate (inc. C647-12 Bearing Set)
      D211-3R Hydraulic Reservoir
      D212-5R Hydraulic Servos [2]
      D212-6R Hydraulic Servo
      D500-2R Hydraulic Pump Assembly
      D500-3R Main Rotor Gearbox Oil Pump Assembly
      F006-1R Main Rotor Gearbox Assembly (Inc. C251-3 Shaft, F143-1 Pinion, F146-1 Pinion, F263-1 Housing, F270-1 Cartridge)
      G201-1 Frame – Servo Support
• F020-1 Upper Frame
• F235-13 Struts [2] – Upper Frame
• F252-1 Strut – Upper Frame
• Associated crates and core deposits (R-suffix after P/N indicates overhaul-exchange component)

 

RHCparts welcomes any inquiries for the KI-6606 and we are able to advise what other parts will be required if furnished with the details of the revision status of the other life limited parts installed. As of October 2024 the list price for the KI-6606 is $115,000 USD, discounts are available. Please contact us for a specific quote based on your requirements.

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Robinson R66 Helicopter Receives FAA Approval to Double Service Life on Selected Components, Making the R66 Even More Affordable to Operate and Maintain

Robinson Helicopter Company (RHC), the world’s leading manufacturer of civil helicopters, obtained FAA approval to double the service life on specific Robinson R66 helicopter components from 2,000 to 4,000 hours. This approval, backed by previously approved data and structural testing, will help operators reduce maintenance costs, enhance reliability, lower operating costs by 6%, and reduce hourly reserve for overhauls by 25%.

This FAA-approved extension, based on rigorous testing and data analysis, directly translates to lower parts and maintenance costs for R66 owners. By extending the service life of critical components from the main rotor gearbox, Robinson is helping operators minimize downtime and maximize operational efficiency.

“This is a game-changer for R66 operators,” said David Smith, President and CEO of Robinson Helicopter Company. “By reducing the frequency of maintenance intervals, we’re making the R66 even more cost-effective and reliable. This reinforces our commitment to providing our customers with the best possible ownership experience.”

The extended service life applies to twelve selected parts, including five components within the main rotor gearbox. This means fewer overhauls and reduced maintenance expenses for R66 operators. In addition to the retirement life extensions mentioned above, the calendar life for the R66 main rotor and tail rotor blades increased from 12 years to 15 years.

“Robinson’s dedication to continuous improvement and customer satisfaction is evident in this latest enhancement to the R66. With its reduced operating costs and unmatched reliability, the R66 remains the helicopter of choice for operators worldwide,” said Smith.