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Check the steering bars for freedom of movement, for proper steering line attachments, and confirm the steering bars are securely attached. 

Inspect the rear wheel and axle assembly. Check the tires for proper inflation, as well as cuts, bruises, wear, bulges, imbedded foreign objects, and deterioration. As a general rule, tires with cord showing, and those with cracked sidewalls are unairworthy. Check the axle and axle hardware, and inspect that the wheels rotate properly. 

## Fuel and Oil 

Pay particular attention to the fuel quantity, type, grade, and quality. Many fuel tanks are sensitive to at- titude when attempting to fuel for maximum capacity. The powered parachute attitude can also be affected laterally by a ramp that slopes. Always confirm the fuel quantity indicated on the fuel gauge(s) by visu- ally inspecting the level of the fuel tank(s). 

The engine manufacturer recommends the type of fuel that any given powered parachute engine should burn; this recommendation should be strictly conformed to. Although most PPC engine manufacturers recom- mend premium grade auto fuel, it is usually accept- able to burn 100LL AVGAS on a limited basis. Most airports will not have auto fuel available on the field. 

Ensure the fuel caps have been securely replaced following each fueling and the vents are free and open. Most powered parachutes have an inline fuel filter located somewhere between the tank and the carburetors; check the fuel filter for contaminates. [Figure 5-8] 

The fuel tank vent is an important part of all preflight inspections. [Figure 5-9] Be alert for any signs of vent 

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tubing damage, as well as vent blockage. A functional check of the fuel vent system can be done simply by opening the fuel cap. If there is a rush of air when the fuel tank cap is opened, there could be a serious problem with the vent system. 

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Check the oil reservoir to ensure the proper oil is used. Check the oil level during each preflight and after each refueling. [Figure 5-10] If the consumption of oil steadily increases or suddenly changes, quali- fied maintenance personnel should investigate. After checking or adding oil to the PPC, ensure that the oil cap has been securely replaced. The oil reservoir on a two-stroke must be checked for adequate venting; if this becomes plugged, it could cause starvation of the oil to the engine. 

Two cycle engines without oil injection premix the oil with the fuel. Assure the mixture ratio is correct. Proper mixing techniques is covered in the fuel sec- tion. 

## Powerplant Inspection 

Inspect the propeller for any signs of propeller blade chafing, and defects such as cracking. Check the pro- peller for large nicks in the leading edge, cracks, pit- ting, corrosion, and security. All propeller tape should be securely attached to the propeller surface, paying special attention to the convex side of the propeller for any delaminating; propeller tape is used primarily for protection on the leading edge of the propeller as well as a supplemental balancing device. Check the propeller hub for security, bolt threads showing and general condition. 

