Landing Gear; Servicing Oleo Struts - Piper PA-32R-301 SARATOGA SP Maintenance Manual

K. OIL FILTER (FULL FLOW) (cont.)
(2) Before discarding the throwaway filter, remove the element for inspection by using a Champion
cutter tool, CT-470, available from Champion Spark Plug Co., Toledo, Ohio 43601. It will cut
open any spin on type oil filter for inspection. Examine the material trapped in the filter for evidence
of internal engine damage, such as chips or particles from bearings. In new or newly overhauled
engines, some small particles of metallic shavings might be found; these are generally of no
consequence and should not be confused with particles produced by impacting, abrasion or
pressure. Evidence of internal engine damage found in the oil filter justifies further examination to
determine the cause.
(3) After the filter has been replaced, tighten the cartridge to 18 to 20 foot-pounds of torque. Lockwire
the bolt through the loops on the side of the housing to the drilled head of the thermostatic valve.
Be sure the lockwire is replaced at both the attaching bolt head and the thermostatic oil cooler
bypass valve. Use MS-20995-C41 safety wire.
L. LANDING GEAR
The landing gear consists of tires, brakes and oleo strut assemblies. These should be inspected for proper
gear extension, scored piston tubes, possible hydraulic fluid leakage and security and condition of all con-
nection points. Check the brake linings for wear and frayed edges, and brake discs for scoring. Replace if
necessary. Minor servicing is described in the following paragraphs. For detailed services and overhaul
instructions, refer to Chapter 32.
M. SERVICING OLEO STRUTS.
Air-oil struts are incorporated in each landing gear oleo to absorb the shock resulting from the impact of
the wheels on the runway during landing. To obtain proper oleo action, the nose gear oleo strut must have
approximately 3.25 ± .25 inches of piston tube exposed, while the main gear struts require approximately
4.5 ± .50 inches of tube exposure (3.60 ± .25 inches of tube exposure when Heavy Duty Wheels, Brakes
and Tires are installed).
Do not release air by removing the strut valve core or filler
plug. Depress the valve core pin until strut chamber pressure
has diminished.
PIPER AIRCRAFT
PA-32R-301/301T
MAINTENANCE MANUAL
— CAUTION —
Do not exceed specified tube exposures.
— WARNING —
1F11
12-10-00
Page 12-8
Reissued: July 1, 1993