4-5 COLD WEATHER OPERATIONS
Proper preight draining and sampling of the fuel system is especially
important during the winter season or prior to ights into cold temperatures, in
order to remove any water accumulation or to detect frozen water in the lines,
as evidenced by reduced fuel ow when operating the drain valve. The use
of a fuel anti-ice additive is required for ice protection. Refer to “Section 2”
of this manual for limitations and requirements concerning proper use of fuel
additives and “Section 8” of this manual for information on servicing the fuel
system.
Cold weather often causes adverse conditions which require special attention
prior to ight. The elevator and aileron trim tabs should be actuated through
their full range of motion to ensure proper operation and to loosen any stiff
components resulting from cold weather. Even the slightest amounts of frost,
ice or snow must be removed from the aircraft prior to ight. Special attention
must be given to the wings, tail and ight control surfaces to ensure there is
no accumulation of frozen moisture.
An external engine pre-heater should be utilized during cold weather
operations to reduce wear on the engine and electrical system. Preheating
the engine lowers the viscosity of the oil and allows it to ow through the
engine more freely; it also prevents it from being trapped in the oil cooler in
extremely low temperatures.
The use of external power is recommended when ambient temperatures drop
below 0°F (-18°C). Allow the engine oil temperature to reach a minimum of
10°C prior to commencing takeoff.
If the runway surface is covered with snow or slush, allowances must be
made based on pilot judgment. Takeoff distances will be increased as the
snow or slush depth increases. In some instances, the depth and consistency
of the snow may prevent airplane takeoff.
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