Textron Cessna C172S PIM, Pilot Operating Handbook

Page: 141 / 322

CESSNA SECTION 4
MODEL 172S NAV III NORMAL PROCEDURES
GFC 700 AFCS
U.S.
AMPLIFIED NORMAL PROCEDURES
PREFLIGHT INSPECTION
The preflight inspection, described in Figure 4-1 and adjacent checklist,
is required prior to each flight. If the airplane has been in extended
storage, has had recent major maintenance, or has been operated from
rough runways, a more extensive exterior inspection is recommended.
Before every flight, check the condition of main and nose landing gear
tires. Keep tires inflated to the pressure specified in Section 8, Airplane
Handling, Service And Maintenance. Examine tire sidewalls for
patterns of shallow cracks called weather checks. These cracks are
evidence of tire deterioration caused by age, improper storage, or
prolonged exposure to weather. Check the tread of the tire for depth,
wear, and cuts. Replace the tire if fibers are visible.
After major maintenance has been performed, the flight and trim tab
controls should be double checked for free and correct movement and
security. The security of all inspection plates on the airplane should be
checked following periodic inspections. If the airplane has been waxed
or polished, check the external static pressure source hole for
stoppage.
If the airplane has been kept in a crowded hangar, it should be checked
for dents and scratches on wings, fuselage, and tail surfaces, damage
to navigation, strobe lights, and avionics antennas. Check for damage
to the nosewheel steering system, the result of exceeding nosewheel
turning limits while towing.
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172SPHBUS-00
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