Tail Rotor Spider Failure Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

In the world of rotorcraft maintenance, the tail rotor spider—or Tail Rotor Spider Pitch Change Unit—plays a vital role in controlling yaw and stabilizing flight. When this component begins to show signs of failure, early detection is crucial. Overlooking the symptoms can lead to serious performance issues or even catastrophic failure.



As an FAA-certified repair station specializing in Airbus and Safran aircraft like the AS350 B2/B3 and EC130 B4/T2, Black Mountain Aviation is here to help you spot the warning signs of tail rotor spider issues—before they compromise your aircraft's performance or safety.

What Is the Tail Rotor Spider?

The tail rotor spider is part of the pitch change mechanism located at the tail of helicopters like the Airbus H125 and EC130. It transmits control inputs from the tail rotor servo to the pitch links and rotor blades, allowing precise yaw control. Tail rotor spiders often include bearings, linkages, and arms that are under constant load and stress during flight.

Common part numbers include:

• 350A33-2030-00
  
  
• 350A33-2167-00
  
  
• 350A33-2167-01
  
  

These assemblies are critical to safe helicopter operation, especially in challenging conditions like high-altitude flights or tight maneuvering in wildfire support or utility missions.

Why It Matters: The Risk of Ignoring a Failing Spider

A worn or damaged tail rotor spider can result in:

• Loss of yaw control
  
  
• Reduced responsiveness
  
  
• Increased vibration
  
  
• Potential in-flight mechanical failure
  
  

Because the tail rotor is essential for counteracting torque produced by the main rotor, any degradation in its components—especially the pitch change unit—can compromise flight stability and pilot control.

Common Signs of Tail Rotor Spider Failure

1. Unusual Vibrations from the Tail Section

One of the first symptoms pilots or technicians may notice is excessive vibration coming from the tail boom. This may feel like a low-frequency pulse or a high-frequency buzz, especially during hover or yaw inputs. A failing spider may allow excess movement or imbalance, disrupting smooth tail rotor operations.

SEO Tip: Look for tail rotor vibrations in Airbus H125 or EC130 spider vibration symptoms during pre- and post-flight inspections.

2. Play or Looseness in Pitch Links

During rotorcraft maintenance, check for axial or radial play in the tail rotor pitch links. A loose or worn-out spider can allow excessive freedom of movement, which may affect the alignment of tail rotor blades.

Pro Insight: Our FAA-certified team at Black Mountain Aviation recommends checking linkage tolerance every 100 flight hours or as part of your scheduled component overhaul exchange program.

3. Metallic Noise During Tail Rotor Input

If you notice clunking, clicking, or grinding when applying pedal input, this could be a symptom of internal wear within the pitch change unit. Metal-on-metal contact typically indicates bearing or bushing failure—both of which require immediate attention.

4. Control Input Lag or Delayed Response

A tail rotor spider nearing failure may result in sluggish tail rotor response, particularly noticeable during rapid pedal inputs. This can lead to unstable hover or delayed heading changes in flight.



5. Visible Corrosion or Cracking

Visual inspections are critical. Signs like:

• Cracking on the spider arms
  
  
• Rust or corrosion around the bearing seats
  
  
• Missing cotter pins or safety wire
  
  

are all indicators that your tail rotor spider is no longer airworthy.

Inspection & Maintenance Recommendations

At Black Mountain Aviation, we specialize in rotorcraft component inspections and tail rotor spider replacement for Airbus and Safran models. Here’s our standard workflow when inspecting tail rotor spiders:

1. Visual Inspection: Check for wear, corrosion, and physical damage.
   
   
2. Function Test: Ensure smooth operation with no resistance or play.
   
   
3. Measurement Check: Use calipers and torque tools to confirm tolerances.
   
   
4. Removal & Overhaul (If Required): Replace with factory-authorized components using OEM specifications.
   
   

All inspections follow FAA Part 145 guidelines and Airbus maintenance manual standards.

OEM and Aftermarket Tail Rotor Spider Support

We stock certified tail rotor spiders for Airbus models, including:

• Eurocopter AS350 B2/B3
  
  
• Airbus H125
  
  
• EC130 B4/T2
  
  

Whether you're looking for P/N 350A33-2167-00 or 350A33-2030-00, our component overhaul exchange program ensures your aircraft experiences minimal downtime.

Don’t Wait for a Failure—Schedule Preventative Maintenance

A delayed response to tail rotor spider degradation can result in far higher repair costs—or worse, put pilot and crew safety at risk. At Black Mountain Aviation, our certified mechanics average 25+ years of rotorcraft experience and are trained in Safran Arriel 1 and 2 series engines, Airbus structural repair, and dynamic component servicing.

Why Choose Black Mountain Aviation?

• FAA Certified Repair Station (LVBR789X)
  
  
• Specializing in Airbus H125, EC130, AS350 B2/B3
  
  
• Component expertise including tail rotor spiders, swashplates, and crossbeams
  
  
• On-site maintenance, field support, and overhaul options
  
  
• Located at Boulder City Municipal Airport (KBVU) with full FBO services
  
  

From inspection to installation, we’ve got you covered.

Schedule a Tail Rotor Inspection Today

If you're noticing any of the symptoms above—or just want to ensure your aircraft remains mission-ready—call Black Mountain Aviation today at (702) 294-1044 or visit www.bmaviation.net to schedule your next inspection.

Your aircraft deserves precision. Your team deserves peace of mind.