Due to its location and exposure to the elements, landing gear is highly susceptible to corrosion, note officials with Duncan Aviation. Water, dirt, debris and foreign objects, acting as electrolytes and producing a corrosive environment, can lead to landing gear corrosion that requires premature removal of components.
Jerry Cable, a Duncan Aviation Accessory Tech Rep, recommends thoroughly lubricating the landing gear with grease to expel trapped water, dirt and debris between the joints. “Following the recommended schedule for lubricating the landing gear and using the recommended lubricant can extend the time between removals and reduce maintenance costs due to corrosion found during maintenance actions,” he said.
“Washing landing gear with pressure washers can make the gear look great, but if not done carefully can sometimes begin the onset of corrosion and cause damage,” he continued. “Great care should be used to prevent pressurized water from entering unusual gear areas. If you decide to use a pressure washer, the landing gear should always be greased immediately after.”
For more advice on technical issues and troubleshooting, read the January issue of Duncan Aviation’s Duncan Intelligence. Distributed to thousands of industry professionals monthly, the Duncan Intelligence newsletter is a free monthly e-mail publication to enhance business aircraft operation and ownership. To subscribe to the monthly email newsletter, click here.
For more information: 800-228-1836 or DuncanAviation.aero.
