I have a vertical-stabilizer mounted TE probe of the type that has 3
ports: ram, static, and venturi. I have been having problems with my
varios and LNAV and had previously checked out the plumbing but had
only looked at the "outside" end of the TE probe itself, which I
remove after each flight. Today I finally thought to look at the butt
end of the TE probe and discovered "junk" (uncertain whether its dried
grease or animal reside/excretion or what) on the ram and static port
outlets! I have cleaned them off as mcuh as possible from the outside
using an unbent paper clip, and air now moves through all 3 ports.
However it's probable that the same "junk" is on the inside of the
female attachment, into which the TE probe is inserted so I feel I
should clean that also. But I can't see much inside it and have no idea
what is in there and if there is something to watch out for in doing
that cleaning. Is it as simple as using a Qtip and denatured alcohol
as I was planning on doing? If anyone has had experience cleaning out
that receptacle I'd appreciate hearing about it.