"lardsoup" wrote in message
...
Preflighting the Arrow I was taught to check the landing gear micro
switches. OK great. There they are. I even work the switch to feel that
it's making contact inside. I was Master Mechanic in the Air Force and
repaired the Autopilot systems on the SR-71 and U-2 so I know about
airplane systems and parts and all, but what exactly am I supposed to be
checking? That they aren't caked in mud? That they are there? I can't
see
if the lights are working while I manipulate the switch so what's the
deal?
None of the CFIs can give me an answer besides, "check the landing gear
switches". I'll keep "checking the switches" on every pre-flight but can
someone provide a more detailed explanation on what I should be checking
for?


There ARE a couple of things that need to be checked.

First you need to make sure that the switches are aligned with the J hooks
on the main gear. Make sure the wires are not disconnected, and that there
is no corrosion in the vicinity of the connections. This is to prevent
uneven wear of the switch and possible early malfunction.

Second ,there are about nine switches total in the Arrow system. A check of
all of them is impossible since a few are out of sight.

The main squat switch is in left gear wheel well, mostly hidden but visible
in a couple of positions. Make sure it is free of corrosion, has wires
attached and is in the open position while on the ground, gear down.

Principle checks are alignment, wires connected, no corrosion, mounted
tightly.

Hope that helps

W. L. Snow CP, IA, ASEL
N5381F