8.9 GROUND HANDLING
(a) Towing
The airplane may be moved on the ground by the use of the nose
wheel steering bar* that is stowed in the baggage compartment or
by power equipment that will not damage or excessively strain the
nose gear steering assembly. Towing lugs are incorporated as part
of the nose gear fork.
CAUTIONS
When towing with power equipment, do not
turn the nose gear beyond its steering radius in
either direction, as this will result in damage to
the nose gear and steering mechanism.
Do not tow the airplane when the controls are
secured. Do not push or pull on the propeller or
control surfaces.
(b) Taxiing
Before attempting to taxi the airplane, ground personnel
should be instructed and approved by a qualified person authorized
by the owner. Engine starting and shut-down procedures as well as
taxi techniques should be covered. When it is ascertained that the
propeller back blast and taxi areas are clear, power should be
applied to start the taxi roll, and the following checks should be
performed:
(1) Taxi a few feet forward and apply the brakes to determine
their effectiveness.
(2) While taxiing, make slight turns to ascertain the effective-
ness of the steering.
(3) Observe wing clearance when taxiing near buildings or
other stationary objects. If possible, station an observer
outside the airplane.
(4) When taxiing over uneven ground, avoid holes and ruts.
(5) Do not operate the engine at high RPM when running up
or taxiing over ground containing loose stones, gravel, or
any loose material that may cause damage to the propeller
blades.
*Optional equipment
PIPER AIRCRAFT CORPORATION
SECTION 8
PA-38-112, TOMAHAWK
HANDLING, SERV & MAINT
ISSUED: JANUARY 20, 1978
REPORT: 2126
8-5
8.9 GROUND HANDLING
(a) Towing
The airplane may be moved on the ground by the use of the nose
wheel steering bar* that is stowed in the baggage compartment or
by power equipment that will not damage or excessively strain the
nose gear steering assembly. Towing lugs are incorporated as part
of the nose gear fork.
CAUTIONS
When towing with power equipment, do not
turn the nose gear beyond its steering radius in
either direction, as this will result in damage to
the nose gear and steering mechanism.
Do not tow the airplane when the controls are
secured. Do not push or pull on the propeller or
control surfaces.
(b) Taxiing
Before attempting to taxi the airplane, ground personnel
should be instructed and approved by a qualified person authorized
by the owner. Engine starting and shut-down procedures as well as
taxi techniques should be covered. When it is ascertained that the
propeller back blast and taxi areas are clear, power should be
applied to start the taxi roll, and the following checks should be
performed:
(1) Taxi a few feet forward and apply the brakes to determine
their effectiveness.
(2) While taxiing, make slight turns to ascertain the effective-
ness of the steering.
(3) Observe wing clearance when taxiing near buildings or
other stationary objects. If possible, station an observer
outside the airplane.
(4) When taxiing over uneven ground, avoid holes and ruts.
(5) Do not operate the engine at high RPM when running up
or taxiing over ground containing loose stones, gravel, or
any loose material that may cause damage to the propeller
blades.
*Optional equipment
PIPER AIRCRAFT CORPORATION
SECTION 8
PA-38-112, TOMAHAWK
HANDLING, SERV & MAINT
ISSUED: JANUARY 20, 1978
REPORT: 2126
8-5