For an annual inspection of a helicopter main rotor transmission gearbox, the inspection data should follow which of the following?

The correct answer is based on the regulatory requirements that stipulate the use of maintenance manuals or instructions for continued airworthiness during an annual inspection of a helicopter main rotor transmission gearbox. These documents provide comprehensive guidance that is specific to the aircraft and its components, ensuring that all inspection criteria, procedures, and necessary maintenance tasks are adequately covered.

Using the maintenance manual or instructions for continued airworthiness ensures compliance with the manufacturer's specifications and regulatory standards. It outlines the precise methods and criteria that must be followed during inspections, allowing for the identification of potential issues and ensuring the reliability and safety of the component in question.

While other options may contain relevant information, such as Appendix B which lists maintenance record requirements, service bulletins that provide updates on necessary modifications, or AC 43.13-1B that offers acceptable methods for maintaining and inspecting aircraft, they do not specifically serve as the primary reference for conducting the thorough and detailed inspections that are required by the maintenance manual. Therefore, in the context of an annual inspection, the maintenance manual or instructions for continued airworthiness are the most pertinent source of information to follow.