Section 8
Handling, Servicing, and Maintenance
Columbia 400 (LC41-550FG)
RC050002
Initial Issue of Manual: November 10, 2004
8-18
Latest Revision Level/Date: -/11-10-2004
5. Remove the batteries and store in a cool, dry location. The batteries may need periodic
servicing and recharging depending on the storage period.
6. Prominently tag areas where tape and plugs are installed.
Airframe Preservation Return to Service –
To return the airframe portion of an airplane that
has been in temporary or indefinite storage to active service, perform the following steps, as
applicable:
1. Remove all methods of tagging and sealing including any items on or in the engine area.
2. Remove tire covers or other protection devices. Check the condition of the tires and service
to proper pressures. Cracked, deformed, and desiccated tires should be replaced.
3. Thoroughly clean the exterior of the airplane including the transparencies. If necessary,
renew the protective wax coat. See page 8-19 for instructions on care of the airframe.
4. Check the condition and charge of the batteries. If the batteries are still serviceable, reinstall
them in the airplane; otherwise, install new batteries.
NOTE
When an airplane has been in storage for a long period, the date of the
required annual inspection may have passed. There is no requirement to
perform this inspection during the temporary or indefinite storage period.
However, the inspection must be completed before than airplane is returned
to service.
Inspections During Temporary Storage
– The following inspections should be performed
while the airplane is in temporary storage:
1. Check the cleanliness of the airframe as frequently as possible, and remove any dust that has
collected.
2. Check the condition and durability of the protective wax coat, and renew as required.
3. Every 30 days, check the interior of at least one cylinder for evidence of corrosion.
Inspections During Indefinite Storage
– The following inspections should be performed while
the airplane is in indefinite storage:
1. Check the condition of the dehydrator plugs every 15 days to verify that the color has not
changed. Bad dehydrator plugs should be replaced. If more than half of the plugs change
color, the bad plugs and all the desiccant bags on the engine should be replaced.
2. Every six months the dehydrator plugs should be replaced and the cylinders re-sprayed with
preservation oil. When removing the plugs, check the cylinder interior. If rust stains are
noted, spray the cylinder with preservation oil, turn the prop through six revolutions, and
then re-spray all cylinders.