When you pick up your plane after an annual, is there any special things
you do?
..stuff snipped


As the responses tell you, more than one person has had one or more
"errors" after their annual. It is likely that something may be missed
when the number of operations performed increases.

I noticed some say to "check the oil filter". I am from the school that
says that the annual inspection is just that. An inspection. I make sure
that all filters (oil, air, vacuum) are already changed and other owner
permissible maintenance is performed. This minimizes the chances that
something is amiss post annual because fewer things have been done. I
also look the beast over carefully at each oil change and note anything
amiss. If I cannot legally fix it, I take it to the IA with parts in
hand and we do the job together. He does not really like chasing after
parts. And, since he is retired, he is not depending on the retail parts
price spread as a source of income. I really LIKE chasing after parts
and don't mind spending hours to get the right one(s).

But, the end is near. My IA is of sufficient age that he is hanging it
up. He may do another year with me, but maybe not. It is a shame that
owner assisted annuals are the exception rather than the rule.

I realize that most owners have neither the time, tools, experience,
desire, or cooperation by the local shop to participate. But those of us
who do are finding it increasingly difficult to get into such an
arrangement.

So, to answer the original question in another way, I would suggest you
offer to participate. That way you will be there to observe the proper
way to do things and you will provide a free set of eyeballs to help out.

Good luck,
Mike