TM 55-1520-240-23-9 11-14 REPAIR OF ALUMINUM CONNECTING LINK 11-14 INITIAL SETUP Applicable Configurations: Without    38 Tools: Inclinometer Aircraft Mechanic’s Tool Kit, NSN 5180-00-323-4692 Airframe Repairer’s Tool Kit, NSN 5180-00-232-4876 Materials: As Required Parts: Rivets Personnel Required: CH-47 Helicopter Repairer Aircraft Structural Repairer Inspector References: TM 1-1500-204-23 Task 11-7 Equipment Condition: Off Helicopter Task WARNING Rod ends removed from fixed end of link (rivet hole in rod end) are to be discarded. NOTE Repair connecting links by replacing rod end bearings and end fittings. 1. Before replacing rod end bearing or end fitting, check link for loose rivets or damaged thread. 2. Blend out nicks and scratches. Depth of blending must not be more than  10 percent  of wall thickness. 3. Check for loose swaged insert (Task 11-7). 4. Replace bearing or end fitting as follows: a. Measure and record distance between bearings or end fitting attachment holes. b. Measure and record difference in angle of bearing.  Use inclinometer. c. If bearing or fitting is held by rivet, drill out rivet. d. Record length of exposed bearing.  Loosen locknut and remove bearing or fitting. e. Install locknut on bearing or fitting. f. Install bearing or fitting to same length of bearing exposed as recorded from step 4d. g. Adjust bearing or insert for length and angle recorded in steps 4a and 4b. h. Tighten locknuts and check adjustment measurement. i. Check inspection hole at bearing or insert. Hole must be closed with thread. 5. If bearing or insert requires riveting, check the following: WARNING Do not enlarge rivet hole.  Enlarged hole may cause link failure, resulting in loss of aircraft, and injury or death to personnel. a. If link has bearings or inserts with  5/16 inch diameter thread, and original rivet size cannot be used, reject link. b. If link has bearings or inserts with  3/8 inch thread,  1/8 inch  may be drilled out to  5/32 inch.  If rivet hole is elongated and 5/32 inch diameter does not remove elongation, reject link. Change 1 11-53