In a message dated 1/4/2007 9:03:55 A.M. Central Standard Time,=20 christopher.zavatson@baesystems.com writes:

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<<= What is the=20 inspection you are recommending-- loosen the fork attach bolts and check f= or=20 oil leakage?>>

Yep, take the f= ork=20 off and look/feel inside the tube. Large leaks are more obvious as=20 accumulated oil will come draining out all over the fork and tire as the b= olts=20 are loosened.

Your recommendation should be at least a part of the annual condition=20 inspection. I believe there is more to be done. I am on a t= hird=20 ESCO strut because of rebuilding problems (adding self centering mod) a= nd=20 even A new ESCO strut that had loose internal parts that led to the leaking=20= and=20 trashing of that strut.

1. Inspect the strut for fluid leakage out of the bottom of the tube;

2. Check the two hex head bolts at the front of the strut (safety=20 wired, below the Schrader valve) for leakage;

3. Check the Allen head bolts at the base of the strut and the clamping= =20 bolt.

4. Clean the strut of any engine compartment goop/oil so the next=20 inspection is of a relatively clean strut.

Every annual:

Perform the visual checks and:

1. Clip the safety wire and check the light torque of the two bolts. I=20= had=20 the seals for these bolts start to leak and slightly tightening the=20 bolts stopped the leak (about 1 face), they were then re-safety=20 wired. Consider replacing the seals if there is any sign of a leak.&nb= sp;=20 Contact Lancair about the seals.

2. Check the torque of the Allen head bolts at the strut base. I=20 had mine loosen up. They probably should have "blue" thread=20= lock=20 applied if they are relatively free of oil.

3. Check the area around the Schrader valve.

4. Remove the fork and check for fluid present in the tube. If an= y,=20 get the thing rebuilt.

5. Upon reattaching the fork, make sure the clamp is properly=20 torqued.

6. It may be useful to check the turn damping by the greased=20 metal plate technique.

I have enjoyed 956 takeoffs, 955 landings and miles of taxiing on these= =20 struts without catastrophic "problems" because of quick reaction to any= =20 symptoms of impending failure.

Scott Krueger=20 AKA Grayhawk
Lancair N92EX IO320 SB 89/96
Aurora, IL (KARR)

A m= an=20 has got to know his limitations.

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