Cessna 172N/P Preflight Inspection
Note: This page is a intended to be a tutorial to assist the student in
learning to preflight a Cessna 172 (N or P models). It is not a replacement
for the check list for a specific airplane. It does not consider
every model variant nor every modification to these airplanes. If the
procedures here contradict those in the airplanes Pilot Operating Handbook
(POH) or the Federal Aviation Regulations, be sure to follow the procedures
in the POH or FARs.
The flight hour meter, or commonly called the "Hobbs meter" measures the
amount of time the engine ran. Since this is normally used for billing,
check the reading against the billing paperwork. It is customary to round up
if the reading is between 2 numbers.
The time on the Tachometer, or "Tach Time" is what is used for maintenance."
This is the number you check against the due times for things like a 100
hour inspection, airworthiness directives and other scheduled maintenance.
CABIN
Aircraft Documents – CHECK. A-R-R-O-W
Airworthiness Certificate
Registeration
Radio Station License - no longer required for flights in the U.S. unless
you have some exotic equipment.
Operating Limitations
Weight and Balance information
Since the Airworthiness Certificate is required to be "displayed",
it goes on top when replacing the documents in the clear window. The
Pilot Operating Handbook (POH) is a required part of the airplane
in airplanes built on or after March 1, 1979. This includes all "P"
Models and many "N" Models.
Control Wheel Lock – REMOVE.
Ignition Switch – OFF.
Avionics Master Switch – OFF.
If your airplane is not equiped with an avionics master switch,
turn off each radio individually.
Master Switch – ON.
Fuel Quantity Indicators – CHECK QUANTITY. Note: Fuel guages must not be
used as the sole indicator of fuel quantity.
Flaps – DOWN.
Note: "N" Models have 40 degrees of flaps, "P" Models have 30 degrees.
Master Switch – OFF.
Baggage Door – CHECK.
EMPENNAGE
Rudder Gust Lock – REMOVE. (if installed)
Position Light – CHECK condition.
Anti-collision Beacon Light – CHECK condition.
VOR Antenna – CHECK condition.
Tail Tie-Down – DISCONNECT.
Check the rudder control cable ends and stop bolts for intact
safety wire and general condition.
While you are here, look at the belly of the airplane from the tail.
Any skin wrinkles and leaks need to be investigated.
Control Surfaces – CHECK freedom of movement and security.
RIGHT WING Trailing Edge
Flap – CHECK.
Check the condition of the flap and it's tracks.
Check that the Flap Control Rod is not binding and the locknut
is present and tight
Aileron – CHECK freedom of movement and security.
Check that the Control Rod is not binding and the locknut
is present and tight
Check the Aileron Hinge Pins for security. These are commonly
secured with a very small cotter key on one end, or by placing
the extended end under the nut on one of the hinge attachment
bolts.
WARNING: Do not put your fingers between the aileron and the wing
unless you are securely holding the aileron with the other hand!
Aileron Counterweights – CHECK security.
RIGHT WING
Wing Tip – CHECK condition. Check the lenses of the position
light and strobe. (if installed)
Wing Tie-Down – DISCONNECT.
Main Wheel Tire – CHECK for proper inflation.
Before first flight of the day and after each refueling, use sampler
cup and drain small quantity of fuel from fuel tank sump drain.
Fuel Quantity – CHECK VISUALLY for desired level.
Fuel Filler Cap – SECURE.
NOSE
Engine Oil Level – CHECK.
Fuel Strainer – DRAIN about 4 seconds before first flight of the day
and after refueling.
Propeller and Spinner – CHECK for nicks and security.
Alternator Belt – CHECK tension and condition.
Engine Compartment - CHECK for bird nests and other foreign
matter. Check for leaks.
Landing Light(s) – CHECK for condition and cleanliness. Note:
Some models have the landing/taxi light on the leading edge of the
left wing
Carburetor Air Filter – Check for restrictions by dust or other
foreign matter.
Nose Tie-Down – DISCONNECT.
Nose Wheel Tire – CHECK for proper inflation.
Nose Wheel Strut – CHECK extended approx. 2 inches.
Shimmy Damper – CHECK for leaks. (Note: some dampers do not
contain fluid)
Static Source Opening (left side of fuselage) – Check for stoppage.
LEFT WING
Main Wheel Tire – CHECK for proper inflation. (same as right side)
Before first flight of the day and after each refueling, use sampler cup
and drain small quantity of fuel from fuel tank sump drain.
(same as right side)
Fuel Quantity – CHECK VISUALLY for desired level.
Fuel Filler Cap – SECURE.
LEFT WING Leading Edge
Pitot Tube Cover – REMOVE and check opening for stoppage.
Fuel Tank Vent Opening – CHECK for stoppage.
Stall Warning Opening – CHECK
Wing Tie-Down – DISCONNECT. (same as right side)
Wing Tip – CHECK condition. Check the lenses of the position
light and strobe. (if installed)
LEFT WING Trailing Edge
Aileron – CHECK freedom of movement and security (same procedure as
the right aileron)
Flap – CHECK (same procedure as the right flap)
