How to Inspect the Landing Gear of an Airplane

These instructions are only intended for inspecting a small single or twin engine, propeller-driven, private airplane. The landing gear on airliners and other aircraft is much more complex procedure. This article is intended for general reference and education. Always follow the procedures outlined in the documentation for your specific aircraft when carrying out an actual inspection.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Main Gear

1. Make sure that the parking break is on.

2. Remove the wheel chocks as you inspect each wheel.

3. If there is a metal faring around the wheel, verify that it is not bent or dented in a way that would allow it to contact the wheel.

4. Check each tire for proper inflation (see owner's manual for recommended psi).

5. Examine the treads of each tire for wear. Look out for worn spots or visible threads.

6. Look on the ground near each wheel for signs of leaking brake fluid.

7. Look closely at each wheel assembly and verify that all connections are tight, and look as they normally do.

Nose Gear

8. Remove the wheel chock.

9. Check the tire for proper inflation (see owner's manual for recommended psi).

10. Check the treads and rubber for wear. Look out for worn spots or visible threads.

11. If there is a metal faring around the wheel, verify that it is not bent or dented in a way that would allow it to contact the wheel.

12. Check that the strut is extended about two inches. Check your owner's manual for exact specification for your aircraft.

13. Check the shimmy damper for signs of leakage. Verify that the nuts and bolts are tight.

Tips & Warnings

• Take a moment to step back and look at each wheel from a distance. Ask yourself if they are straight and look like they usually do. Sometimes you can spot a problem this way.
• When inspecting the nose gear, take care that no part of your body enters the arc of the propeller.