Mag timing check, for dumb guys

[Skymaster337B]

Do I need to remove the P-lead to do an external mag check? Does that require a "jumper" P-lead in it's place? Or can I just keep the P-lead installed and connect my timing box to the ignition grounding wire that comes off of it?

[Pete Somers]

You need to remove the P Lead and remove the cap from all the spark plugs for safety.

Pete

[Skymaster337B]

So, after I remove the P-lead, do I connect the timing tester wire to the removed P-lead? Or do I need to install a P-lead jumper cable into the magneto and then attach the timing tester wire to that jumper cable?

Originally Posted by Pete Somers

You need to remove the P Lead and remove the cap from all the spark plugs for safety.

Pete

[skymstr02]

Are you a licenced powerplant mechanic? If not, you should read FAR 43, and pay particular attention to appendix A.

I'll cut to the chase here. If you are a licenced mechanic, then you obviously do not have the required training to perform this function, and are not qualified to proceed any further, in accordance with FAR 65.

If you are not a licenced mechanic, this does not fall into the preventive maintenance scope of work, and you are not qualified to proceed any further, in accordance with FAR 43.

If you do proceed, your aircraft airworthiness certificate is invalid, read the small print in the center of the document:




A standard airworthiness certificate remains valid as long as the aircraft meets its approved type design, is in a condition for safe operation and maintenance, preventative maintenance, and alterations are performed in accordance with 14 CFR parts 21, 43, and 91.

[Skymaster337B]

Ok, I deserved that, base upon how I posted this. However, I think my timing box is broken, and I just wanted some reassurance that I'm not missing anything...short cuts or shop secrets.

Thanks

[skymstr02]

I apologize for being so harse, but I got burned by the FAA once after completing an annual inspection on a customers aircraft. The owner had performed undocumented maintenance, and since my name was the last in the book, I took the heat.

Touch the ground lead from your buzz box to one of the other leads, listen for a tone change and a light to either go on or off, depending on the type of box that you have. That will be the test for the unit.