For Cirrus SR22 owners in Southern California, particularly those based at Van Nuys Airport, a meticulous inspection of the landing gear shock struts is a critical part of the annual inspection. The oleo-pneumatic struts, which use both oil and compressed air to absorb landing shocks, must be in top condition for safe flight operations. In the hot and dusty climate of the Southwest, these components are under constant stress, making a professional and consistent inspection an act of authority that provides the social proof your aircraft is safe to fly.
This article outlines the best practices for a professional landing gear strut inspection, emphasizing the importance of expert maintenance and highlighting The Aero Center’s unique 24/7 service that helps to minimize aircraft downtime.
THE VITAL ROLE OF LANDING GEAR STRUTS
The landing gear struts on a Cirrus SR22 serve a dual purpose: they support the aircraft on the ground and absorb the energy of landing. A properly functioning strut is crucial for a smooth and safe landing, protecting the airframe and engine from excessive stress. A failing strut, whether due to a fluid leak or a loss of air pressure, can lead to a variety of issues, from a nose wheel shimmy to a hard landing that can damage the aircraft. The pilot’s consistency in performing a thorough pre-flight check of the struts is a good habit, but the mechanic’s consistency in inspecting them with specialized tools is what ensures their long-term reliability.
BEST PRACTICES FOR INSPECTION
A professional mechanic’s inspection of the landing gear struts goes far beyond a casual glance. It’s a methodical process that leverages their authority and specialized knowledge to find and address issues before they become major failures. Here are the key steps:
- Visual Inspection for Leaks: The mechanic will first perform a comprehensive visual check of the struts. They will look for any signs of hydraulic fluid leaks, which may appear as an oily residue on the outside of the cylinder. A leak is a clear sign of a failing seal and means the strut is not providing the necessary damping.
- Checking Proper Extension: A well-functioning oleo strut will extend to its proper length when the aircraft is on the ground. The mechanic will check the extension of all three struts—the nose gear and the two main gear—and compare the length to the manufacturer’s specifications. A strut that is not extending properly can indicate a loss of fluid or air pressure due to a failing seal.
- Measuring Strut Travel: The mechanic will apply weight to the aircraft and measure the amount of compression and rebound in the struts. The movement should feel smooth and well-dampened. Any jerking, looseness, or lack of resistance can indicate a problem. They will also check for any signs of binding or roughness in the strut’s movement.
- Inspecting the Chrome Piston: The chrome piston, which slides in and out of the strut, is a critical component. The mechanic will inspect this surface for any signs of pitting, rust, or flaking. Pitting or flaking can damage the internal seals, leading to a fluid leak. If the chrome is damaged, the strut will need to be replaced or re-chromed by a specialist.
- Tire and Bearing Inspection: A strut that is not functioning properly can cause uneven tire wear and can also put additional stress on the wheel bearings. As part of the landing gear inspection, the mechanic will also check the tires for uneven wear and the wheel bearings for proper lubrication and signs of wear.
THE AERO CENTER’S COMMITMENT TO DOWNTIME REDUCTION
For Cirrus SR22 owners in California, Arizona, and Nevada, the inconvenience of airplane downtime for an annual inspection is a major concern. This is where The Aero Center distinguishes itself. We are the only 24/7 maintenance center in the region. Our unique service model is built on the principle of consistency and a dedication to getting your aircraft back in the air as quickly as possible without compromising on safety or quality.
Our FAA-certified mechanics are highly experienced with the specific systems of the Cirrus SR22. We follow all manufacturer checklists and a meticulous, step-by-step process to ensure your aircraft is not only compliant with regulations but is also a safe and reliable machine. Our authority in the field is built on a foundation of trust and a proven track record of providing reliable, expert maintenance to the general aviation community.
Footnotes:
- Cirrus Aircraft. “Cirrus SR22 Maintenance Manual”.
- Federal Aviation Administration. “AC 43.13-1B: Acceptable Methods, Techniques, and Practices – Aircraft Inspection and Repair”.
- Savvy Aviation. “Prebuy Checklist”.
- Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). “Landing Gear Care”.
The Aero Center is located at William J. Fox Airfield KWJF | Lancaster, CA. Contact us at 209.885.6950 for questions or appointments.
For Cirrus SR22 owners in Southern California, particularly those based at Van Nuys Airport, a meticulous inspection of the landing gear shock struts is a critical part of the annual inspection. The oleo-pneumatic struts, which use both oil and compressed air to absorb landing shocks, must be in top condition for safe flight operations. In the hot and dusty climate of the Southwest, these components are under constant stress, making a professional and consistent inspection an act of authority that provides the social proof your aircraft is safe to fly.
This article outlines the best practices for a professional landing gear strut inspection, emphasizing the importance of expert maintenance and highlighting The Aero Center’s unique 24/7 service that helps to minimize aircraft downtime.
THE VITAL ROLE OF LANDING GEAR STRUTS
The landing gear struts on a Cirrus SR22 serve a dual purpose: they support the aircraft on the ground and absorb the energy of landing. A properly functioning strut is crucial for a smooth and safe landing, protecting the airframe and engine from excessive stress. A failing strut, whether due to a fluid leak or a loss of air pressure, can lead to a variety of issues, from a nose wheel shimmy to a hard landing that can damage the aircraft. The pilot’s consistency in performing a thorough pre-flight check of the struts is a good habit, but the mechanic’s consistency in inspecting them with specialized tools is what ensures their long-term reliability.
BEST PRACTICES FOR INSPECTION
A professional mechanic’s inspection of the landing gear struts goes far beyond a casual glance. It’s a methodical process that leverages their authority and specialized knowledge to find and address issues before they become major failures. Here are the key steps:
- Visual Inspection for Leaks: The mechanic will first perform a comprehensive visual check of the struts. They will look for any signs of hydraulic fluid leaks, which may appear as an oily residue on the outside of the cylinder. A leak is a clear sign of a failing seal and means the strut is not providing the necessary damping.
- Checking Proper Extension: A well-functioning oleo strut will extend to its proper length when the aircraft is on the ground. The mechanic will check the extension of all three struts—the nose gear and the two main gear—and compare the length to the manufacturer’s specifications. A strut that is not extending properly can indicate a loss of fluid or air pressure due to a failing seal.
- Measuring Strut Travel: The mechanic will apply weight to the aircraft and measure the amount of compression and rebound in the struts. The movement should feel smooth and well-dampened. Any jerking, looseness, or lack of resistance can indicate a problem. They will also check for any signs of binding or roughness in the strut’s movement.
- Inspecting the Chrome Piston: The chrome piston, which slides in and out of the strut, is a critical component. The mechanic will inspect this surface for any signs of pitting, rust, or flaking. Pitting or flaking can damage the internal seals, leading to a fluid leak. If the chrome is damaged, the strut will need to be replaced or re-chromed by a specialist.
- Tire and Bearing Inspection: A strut that is not functioning properly can cause uneven tire wear and can also put additional stress on the wheel bearings. As part of the landing gear inspection, the mechanic will also check the tires for uneven wear and the wheel bearings for proper lubrication and signs of wear.
THE AERO CENTER’S COMMITMENT TO DOWNTIME REDUCTION
For Cirrus SR22 owners in California, Arizona, and Nevada, the inconvenience of airplane downtime for an annual inspection is a major concern. This is where The Aero Center distinguishes itself. We are the only 24/7 maintenance center in the region. Our unique service model is built on the principle of consistency and a dedication to getting your aircraft back in the air as quickly as possible without compromising on safety or quality.
Our FAA-certified mechanics are highly experienced with the specific systems of the Cirrus SR22. We follow all manufacturer checklists and a meticulous, step-by-step process to ensure your aircraft is not only compliant with regulations but is also a safe and reliable machine. Our authority in the field is built on a foundation of trust and a proven track record of providing reliable, expert maintenance to the general aviation community.
Footnotes:
- Cirrus Aircraft. “Cirrus SR22 Maintenance Manual”.
- Federal Aviation Administration. “AC 43.13-1B: Acceptable Methods, Techniques, and Practices – Aircraft Inspection and Repair”.
- Savvy Aviation. “Prebuy Checklist”.
- Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). “Landing Gear Care”.
The Aero Center is located at William J. Fox Airfield KWJF | Lancaster, CA. Contact us at 209.885.6950 for questions or appointments.