APPENDIX 1
Aircraft Testing
INTRODUCTION
For a factory new SLSA, use this Appendix when reassembling the aircraft, after performing major
alterations or repairs. To prevent errors in assembling and or reassembling the aircraft, follow the
instruction. FOLLOW THE MANUFACTURERS DRAWINGS.
USE THE ZODIACPARTS DRAWINGS AS YOU ASSEMBLE AND INSPECT YOUR
AIRCRAFT.
USE THE ENGINE MANUALS AS YOU ASSEMBLE AND INSPECT YOUR AIRCRAFT.
USE THE PROPELLER MANUALS AS YOU ASSEMBLE AND INSPECT YOUR AIRCRAFT.
Once the aircraft is reassembled, perform:
FITNESS INSPECTION
Static system: The best procedure to check the altimeter for leaks and accuracy is to have the
entire static system checked in accordance with FAR Part 43, appendix E, at an FAA-approved repair
station
1.
Field Check.
Two people are needed to accomplish the following field check that will enable the owner / mechanic
to detect if the aircraft’s instrument system is leaking: (Note: This field check
is not an accuracy check.)
a. Pitot-Static leak check: Slip a long rubber hose over the pitot mast (surgical tubing is
recommended).
As one person reads the airspeed, the other should very slowly roll up the other end of the tubing. This
will apply pressure to the instrument. When the airspeed indicator needle reaches the aircraft’s
approximate recommended cruise speed, pinch the hose shut, and hold that reading. The airspeed
needle should remain steady for a minute if the system is sound. A fast drop off will indicate a leak in
the instrument, fittings, lines, or the test hose attachment. NEVER force air in the pitot tube or orally
apply suction on a static vent. This will cause damage to the instruments.
b. Altimeter/vertical speed check.
(1) To check the static side, apply low suction at the end of the static vent port. The easiest way to gain
access to the static system is to remove the static line at the static port. Next, get two feet of surgical
tubing, seal one end, and tightly roll it up. Attach the open end to the static line and slowly unroll the
tubing. This will apply a suction, or low pressure, to the static system.
(2) The altimeter should start to show an increase in altitude. The vertical speed indicator also should
indicate a rate of climb. The airspeed may show a small positive indication. When the altimeter
reads approximately 2,000 feet, stop and pinch off the tube. There will be some initial decrease in alti-
tude and the vertical speed will read zero. The altimeter should then hold the indicated altitude for at
least a minute. If altitude is lost, check for leaks.
(3) IMPORTANT: The above airspeed and altimeter field checks should not be considered the
equivalent of airspeed or static system accuracy tests as certified by a certificated repair station, but a
check of the system for possible leaks. Make sure that the location of the pitot static tube location is as
per illustration in Maintenance Manual.
Appendix 1 NOV 09
Page 1