AD/PMC/40 - Blade Counterweight Bolt Replacement - CANCELLED

What this is: This document officially cancels a previous aviation safety rule (Airworthiness Directive AD/PMC/40) that applied to McCauley variable-pitch propellers.

What the old rule required: Aircraft owners previously had to replace black oxide counterweight bolts with new cadmium-plated bolts on certain propellers. The black oxide bolts were prone to corrosion and cracking, which could cause the propeller to fail.

What this cancellation means: As of 21 December 2006, that replacement requirement no longer applies. The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) has determined that the safety issue has been adequately addressed—likely because the affected bolts have been replaced fleet-wide or the manufacturer has resolved the issue.

Who it affects: Owners and operators of aircraft fitted with McCauley variable-pitch propellers who were previously subject to Directive AD/PMC/40.

Bottom line: If you were waiting to comply with this bolt replacement rule, you don't need to anymore. The directive is dead.