Cessna preflight exterior inspection
NOTE**the following information is a general inspection tool. You should use the POH preflight inspection check list that is issued by the aircraft manufacture for the aircraft in which you are flying.
Visually inspect the aircraft for general condition during the walk around.
In cold weather, remove even small accumulations of frost, ice or snow from wing, tail and control surfaces.
Also be sure all control surfaces contain no internal accumulations of ice or debris.
If night flight is planned, check operation of all lights, and make sure a flash light is available.
Check aircraft documents (AROW) A – Airworthiness Certificate, R – Registration,
O – Pilot Operating Handbook (specifically the Operating Limitations),
W – Weight and Balance.
1) Start in the front left seat. Set parking brake
A) Remove control wheel lock and Pitot cover.
B) Check ignition switch off.
C) Turn on master switch and check fuel quantity indicators and lower flaps.
D) Check fuel selector valve on both.
E) Turn on all lights and pitot heat.
F) Check pitot heat and lights to be working.
G) Turn off pitot heat, lights and master
H) Check baggage door for security.
2) Tail section.
A) Remove rudder gust lock, if installed.
B) Disconnect tail tie down.
C) Check control surfaces for freedom of movement and security (Check all connection nuts, keys and cables).
D) Check counter weights
E) Stabilizer leading edge
F) Check antennas.
3) Right wing.
A) Check Ailerons for freedom of movement and security (Check all connection nuts, keys and cables).
B) Disconnect wing tie down.
C) Check main wheel and tire for proper inflation and leaking fluids.
D) Before the first flight of the day and after each refueling, use fuel sampler cup to drain a small quantity of fuel from the tank sump quick drain valve to check for water, sediment, and proper fuel color.
E) Visually check fuel quantity; then check to be sure fuel filler cap is secure.
F) Check wing leading edge and strut.
4) Engine area.
A) Check oil level. Refer to your aircraft manual for required quantity.
B) Before the first flight of the day and after each refueling, pull out the fuel strainer drain for about 4 seconds to clear fuel strainer of any water or sediments. Check strainer valve to be closed. If water is observed, the fuel system may contain additional water. Further draining will be required.
C) Check the propeller and spinner for nicks and security.
D) Check belts for tightness.
E) Check air inlet for obstructions and cleanliness.
F) Check nose wheel tire for proper inflation and any leakage.
G) Check static source opening.
H) Check cowling to be secure.
5) Left wing
A) Check main wheel tire for proper inflation and leakage.
B) Before the first flight of the day and after each refueling, use fuel sampler cup to drain a small quantity of fuel from the tank sump quick drain valve to check for water, sediment, and proper fuel color.
C) Visually check fuel quantity; then check to be sure fuel filler cap is secure.
D) Remove Pitot tube cover, if installed, and check pitot tube for stoppage.
E) Check fuel tank vent opening for stoppage.
F) Check stall warning vent opening for stoppage.
G) Disconnect wing tie down.
H) Check Ailerons and flaps for freedom of movement and security (Check all connection nuts, keys and cables).
I) check leading edge.
