Section 4
Columbia 400 (LC41-550FG)
Normal Procedures
Initial Issue of Manual: November 10, 2004
RC050002
Latest Revision Level/Date: -/11-10-2004
4-21
Here are a few final suggestions regarding the measuring stick. (1) Marks on the stick should be
etched into the wood or labeled with a paint that is impermeable to aviation fuel. (2) Remember,
that sticking the tanks may not be a precise indication, and a margin for safety should be added.
(3) It is a good idea to make a reference mark at the top of the measuring device that indicates
the position of the top of the filler neck. If the reference mark on the stick goes below the tank
neck when it is inserted in the tank, the measuring stick is resting on the bottom of the tank,
rather than on the tab.
STATIC WICKS
The static wicks are designed to discharge accumulated static electricity created by the airplane’s
movement through the air. Because the Columbia 400 (LC41-550FG) cruises at high speeds, the
wicks are the solid type with a carbon interior and a plastic exterior. The static wick can be
broken without obvious exterior indications. To check the wick’s integrity, hold its trailing edge
between the thumb and forefinger, and gently move it left and right about two inches. If the unit
flexes at point A as shown in Figure 4 - 3, the wick is broken and should be replaced.
Figure 4 - 3
In some instances, the owners and/or operators prefer to remove the wicks after each flight to
prevent breakage during storage. If the wicks are removed, they must be reinstalled before each
flight. Flight without the wicks can cause the loss of, or problems with communications and
navigation. See Section 7, page 7-137 for more information.
BEFORE STARTING ENGINE
Fresh Air Vents
– The fresh air eyeball vents for all unoccupied seats shall be closed when the
pilot is the only person in the airplane. This is because, in the event of an engine fire, all
ventilation must be turned off. Turning off inaccessible fresh air ventilation while attending to
the demands of the emergency makes the situation more difficult.
Three Point Restraints (Seat Belts and Shoulder Harnesses)
– The pilot-in-command is
usually diligent about securing his or her restraint device; however, it is important to ensure that
each passenger has their belt properly fastened. The lower body restraints on all seats are
adjustable. However, they may not be similar to airline or automotive restraint devices. A
passenger may have the seat belt fastened but not properly adjusted. See page 7-14 for a detailed
discussion. The use of seat belts is also explained on the Passenger Briefing Card.
Stow the restraint devices on unoccupied seats to prevent fouling during emergency exiting of
the airplane. Unoccupied rear seat restraints should be drawn to the smallest size possible and the
male and female ends of the buckle engaged in the rear seat positions. The front seat passenger
restraint buckle must not be engaged, even if the seat is unoccupied.
Child Restraints
–
The use of seat belts and child restraint systems (car seats) for children and
infants is somewhat more complicated. The FARs state that a child may be held by an adult who
is occupying an approved seat, provided that the person being held has not reached his or her
Trailing Edge
Point A
