Way to check gear BEFORE takeoff
On hydraulic system gear,
While taxiing, or on ground, cycle gear handle to DOWN.
Then observe how many seconds it takes to return to locked down position.
When you cycle gear handle down, it goes through full cycle.
Pressurized system
Triggers various mysterious cycling valves
Then when it hits as I recall 1200 or 1500 psi, it pops up back to gear down position.
If warm out, will cycle in 3-5 secs
If fluid is low, (or very very cold) will take more than 10 secs to pop back
If in doubt, do it again. No extra charge.
If any leaks, it will take even longer (or not at all).
All while safely on the ground!
I keep a gal of the right stuff in my tie down box
As well as squatter can.
Every so often just top off reservoir
NOTE:
Whenever the system is opened for any maintenance
Cycle the gear a bunch of times - in air or on jacks
Top off
Cycle a bunch more times
Top off
Wash rinse and repeat until it stops needing any more.
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David Wartofsky
Potomac Airfield
10300 Glen Way
Fort Washington, MD 20744
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