notesonthefarsforglidersandgliderpilots.docVIP

Notes on the FARs for Gliders and Glider Pilots John Cochrane, 11/25/06 Warning: these are plain-English interpretations and do not substitute for the actual wording! You should also read the actual text of the current version of the FARs. Current FARs are available on line at . This also reflects my judgment about what’s important and what isn’t, but of course everything is legally important. This is a study guide, not a reference! Part 43 Maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding or alteration 43.1 Part 43 (a) applies to US airworthiness certificates but (b) not to experimental 43.3 Persons authorized (a)-(c). Pilots, i.e. without mechanic or repairman certificate, can’t do most things. (d) You can work under the supervision of a mechanic or repairman if they are readily available for consultation and observe the work. This does not apply to inspections. (g) Pilots may perform preventive maintenance on an aircraft owned or operated by that pilot ...See appendix A for definition of “preventive maintenance” 43.5 Paperwork. After “maintenance, preventive maintenance , rebuilding or alteration” you need (a) an entry in maintenance record (aircraft logbook) (b) repair or alteration form (c) revised operating limitations or flight data if appropriate. Among other things, this means weight and balance. 43.9 Maintenance records. Write (1) a description of the work (2) date, name, signature and certificate number. This applies to pilots making preventative maintenance too. If you change ELT batteries, fix a gelcoat spot, change a tire, etc., you should write it in your aircraft logbook. Appendix A c) Preventive maintenance defined – the stuff you as a pilot can legally do. See part for exact wording (1) tires (2) elastic shock cords on landing gear (3) adding oil or air to shock struts (4) servicing wheel bearings (5) safety wiring or cotter keys (6) lubrication not requiring disassembly (7) simple fabric patches (8) adding hydraulic fluid