Re: Spring fever

[Doug Davis]

You must take the Tire off, to remove the oleo strut, otherwise the strut cannot come back enough to clear.  You then remove the bottom of the strut from the piston.  If there is any fluid in the oleo, drain it and replace after cleaning the assy., and installing the shock absorbers. While you have it apart, you should also replace the "o"ring, or check  the condition of the"cup" and replace if necessary. Unfortunately, most oleos don't receive much consideration even from most [EMAIL PROTECTED], and the fluid is critical to prevent damage to the center section airframe. The set screw is to be tightened after the spacer is seated against the top flange of the strut.  Make sure the flange is clean of debris before seating.  If you are jacking through the Knee, be sure to use two bottle jacks and a secure rod through the knee joint, and lift evenly.  When if lowered once again, you get a creaking noise, don't worry, move the aircraft around a bit and it will cease. It's the knee joint readjusting itself.  As to tires, the Mfgr. gives only 5 years on sidewall warranty.  If your tires are more than 5 years old, regardless of environmental cracking, and you have a tire related accident, the Ins. Co. will most likely disallow your claim.  They can tell from your logs and the serial # on the tires, their age. Besides, you can get a good quality aircraft tire for 64.00 through Desser Tire, 800-247-8473, so why take the chance with your life and your lovely aircraft. I couldn't believe the condition of my tires as passed last fall by an [EMAIL PROTECTED]  These tires were cracked to the chords!!!. Check the inside wall (exterior) they're usually worse than the outside.(hub side) Hope some of this helps. Doug-94023