Section 4 Pilot’s Operating Handbook
Normal Procedures EXTRA 500
4.7 Normal Procedures (Amplified)
4.7.a Preflight Inspection
1 General
If the aircraft has been in extended storage or had recent major
maintenance, or has been operated from marginal airfields, a
more extensive exterior inspection is recommended.
After major maintenance, the flight and trim tab controls should
be double-checked for free and correct movement and security.
The security of all inspection plates should be checked
following periodic inspections. If the aircraft has been waxed or
polished, check that the external static ports are free.
If the aircraft has been exposed in a crowded hangar, it should
especially be checked for scratches on wing, empennage and
tail surfaces, damage to navigation and anti-collision lights and
avionics antennae.
Generally the aircraft should be parked headed into the wind
and with air intake, exhaust covers fixed and propeller protected
against windmilling.
Outside storage for long periods may result in dust and dirt
accumulation, obstructions in airspeed system lines and
condensation in fuel tanks. If any water is detected in the fuel
system or fuel reservoir drain valves, they should all be
thoroughly drained until there is no evidence of water or
sediment contamination.
After outside storage in winds or gusty areas or if tied down
adjacent to taxiing aircraft, special attention to control surfaces,
hinges and brackets is required to detect the presence of wind
damage.
If the aircraft has been operated from muddy fields or in snow
or slush, check the main and nose wheel wells for obstructions
and cleanness. Operation from a gravel or cinder airfield will
require extra attention to surfaces.
Aircraft that are operated from rough fields, especially at high
altitudes, are subject to abnormal landing gear abuse.
Frequently check all components of the landing gear, struts,
tires and brakes.
To prevent loss of fuel in flight, make sure, that all filler caps
are tightly sealed after any system check or servicing. Fuel
system vents should be inspected for obstructions, ice or water,
especially after exposure to cold, wet weather.
4-26 26. January 2011
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