The gear-retract handle is a knob on the end of the actuator rod that rotates outboard to lock the gear up or down. Its rotation is restrained by a friction washer. Over time, this wears / compresses, so the friction decreases. It can reach the point where the knob rotates freely, making the gear somewhat prone to collapse, especially when landing on rough ground. The friction is easily adjusted by a nut that compresses the friction washer.. Owners should be aware that a freely rotating knob is a problem waiting to happen - but it seems only a minority understand this issue.

Paul

DG also offers a retrofit kit that forces the brakes torque tube in the outboard position. Technical note TN 359/22 (service contract required)

https://www.dg-flugzeugbau.de/en/dow...-22/8FW25e.pdf