Retractable Landing Gear Problems

[berge7f9]

I am about to get back into some multi-engine complex aircraft flying in a little while. One of my biggest fears is missing something on a preflight inspection of the landing gear which could lead to a gear problem in flight.

I was just wondering about what some mechanics and maintenance technicians find are some of the most common problems with retractable gear types (Seminole, Duchess, etc.)?

What are some of the common things a seasoned AMT would check during a preflight inspection besides the most obvious things (major hydraulic leaks etc.)?

[VDEE7]

Check the Nose gear Upper/Lower Drag links assembly for cracks and strength in the Seminole. They take alot of beating especially if it's a trainer. There have been alot of landing incidents where the nose gear collapsed due to weak drag links in the Seminole.

[ananoman]

Originally Posted by berge7f9

I am about to get back into some multi-engine complex aircraft flying in a little while. One of my biggest fears is missing something on a preflight inspection of the landing gear which could lead to a gear problem in flight.

I don't see what the big deal is. I always checked everything to make sure all the nuts and bolts were there and nothing was cracked, but I don't remember ever finding anything wrong with the gear in my time flying Seminoles and Arrows. A few bald tires and worn brake pads here and there, that was it. I did have to do an emergency extension one time, but it worked as advertised. Even if you do have to do a gear up, they are not that big of a deal. Just don't try to show off by feathering both props before you land. Let the insurance company buy new ones.

[SpiraMirabilis]

Seminole has the same landing gear basically every other Piper has, so like if you have a problem with your gear and not all of them extend your other "down" gear are probably not locked in place in the down position anyway so expect a belly landing.