ACA Citabria Explorer 7ECA User manual

CITABRIA
MODELS 7ECA, 7GCAA, 7GCBC
1994 MODELS AND NEWER
(Revised 01-01-01)
AMERICAN CHAMPION AIRCRAFT CORPORATION
32032 WASHINGTON AVE –HWY D
PO BOX 37 ROCHESTER, WI 53167
* Model year is indicated by serial number suffix.

i
LOG OF REVISIONS AMERICAN CHAMPION AIRCRAFT
CITABRIA (7 SERIES)
LOG OF REVISIONS
Revision
Pages Affected
Description Change
Date

ii
FORWARD AMERICAN CHAMPION AIRCRAFT
CITABRIA (7SERIES)
FOREWORD
This manual has been prepared to inform the pilot of the features and systems incorporated in
the V American Champion Citabria Models. Recommended operating procedures and
performance data are provided so that maximum utilization can be obtained with the utmost of
safety, economy and serviceability.
It is strongly recommended that the pilot be familiar with the aircraft and this manual prior to
flight.
This manual applies only to the aircraft as indicated on the cover page. Use of this manual with
other V aircraft is not recommended. However, the use of this manual with older Citabria
models, systems, descriptions and specific operating limitations may vary slightly (eg. fuel
quantity and inverted engine oil system). All placards and operating limitations in a specific
aircraft MUST be adhered to.
This manual does not replace the FAA Approved Airplane Flight Manual. If an inconsistency
exists between the manuals, the FAA Approved Airplane Flight Manual is to be the authority.
The words “WARNING”, “CAUTION”, and “NOTE” are used throughout the manual with the
following definitions.
WARNING
An operating procedure, practice or condition, etc. which may
result in injury or fatality, if not carefully observed or followed.
CAUTION
An operating procedure, practice or condition, etc. which if not
strictly observed, may damage the aircraft or equipment.
NOTE
An operating procedure, practice or condition, etc. which is essential
to emphasize.
TABLE OF CONTENTS AMERICAN CHAMPION AIRCRAFT
CITABRIA (7 SERIES)

iii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION I OPERATING LIMITATIONS ........................................... 1-1
SECTION II EMERGENCY PROCEDURES ...................................... 2-1
SECTION III NORMAL OPERATING PROCEDURES ........................ 3-1
SECTION IV FLIGHT PERFORMANCE .............................................. 4-1
SECTION V WEIGHT AND BALANCE ............................................... 5-1
SECTION VI AIRCRAFT & SYSTEMS DESCRIPTION ........................ 6-1
SECTION VII SERVICING .................................................................... 7-1

Citabria 1-1
SECTION I
OPERATING LIMITATIONS
INDEX
GENERAL ...............................................................................1-1
FLIGHT OPERATIONS ............................................................1-1
POWERPLANT LIMITATIONS ................................................1-2
AIRSPEED LIMITATIONS .......................................................1-3
WEIGHT AND BALANCE LIMITS ............................................ 1-3
FLIGHT LOAD FACTORS .......................................................1-4.
MANOEUVRES ....................................................................... 1-4
REQUIRED PLACARDS ..........................................................1-4
GENERAL
This section lists all power plant and airframe operating limitations. These limitations are also
indicated in the aircraft in the form of placards and instrument colour markings. The aircraft
placards and instrument markings are to be the authority if an inconsistency exists with this
manual.
Limitations pertaining to optional equipment such as floats or external spray units must be
obtained from the respective manufacturer.
WARNING
All operating limitations must be strictly adhered to for reasons of
safety and serviceability.
FLIGHT OPERATIONS
All Citabria models are approved in the Normal and Acrobatic Category.
Day or night flight in VFR conditions only is approved providing the aircraft is equipped with the
required equipment and is in operating condition as specified under Part 91 of the Federal Air
Regulations (F.A.R. ‘s).
Flight into known icing conditions is prohibited.
POWER PLANT LIMITATIONS
Aircraft Model
7ECA
7GCA,7GCBC.
Engine, Lycoming
O-235-K2C
O-320-B2B
Rated Horsepower (hp/rpm)
118
160-2700
Fuel, Aviation Grade, Mm. Octane
100/130*
100/130

Citabria 1-2
Approved For Continuous Use
Tachometer
*(low lead).
Normal Range (green arc) (rpm)
1800-2800
1800-2700
Maximum (red line) (rpm)
Cylinder Head Temperature
2800
2700
Normal Range (green arc) (°F)
90-500
90-500
Maximum (red line) (°F)
Oil Temperatures
500
500
Normal Range (green arc) (°F)
100-245
100-245
Maximum(redline)(°F)
Oil Pressure
245
245
Normal Range (green arc) (psi)
60-100
60-100
Caution Range (yellow arc) (psi)
25-60
25-60
Maximum (red line) (psi)
100
100
Minimum (red line) (psi)
25
25
AIRSPEED LIMITATIONS
AIRSPEED DESIGNATION
CAS (MPH)
Never Exceed (VNE - red line) ......................................................162
Caution Range (yellow arc) .........................................................120-162
Maximum Structural Cruise (VNO) ................................................120
Normal Operating Range (green arc)...........................................50-120
Flap Operating Range.(VFE - white arc)........................................45-90 (7GCBC)
Manoeuvring (VA - @ 1650 lbs.) ..................................................120
NOTE
CAS -
Calibrated airspeed is indicated airspeed (LAS) corrected V for
installation and instrument error.
lAS -
Indicated airspeed assumes zero instrument error only.
VNE -
Maximum safe airspeed, not to be exceed Vat anytime.
VNO -
Not to be exceeded except in smooth air only and then with caution.

Citabria 1-3
VFE -
Not to be exceeded with flaps extended.
VA -
No full or abrupt control movements allowed above this airspeed.
WEIGHT AND BALANCE LIMITS
Aircraft Model and Weight Centre of Gravity Range
Normal Category
Acrobatic Category
7ECA
1650 lbs maximum
14.2”-19.2”
14.2”-17.3”
1325 lbs or less
10.5”-19.2”
10.5”-17.3”
7GCAA
1650 lbs maximum
10.5”-18.2”
10.5”-16.0”
1325 lbs or less
10.5”-18.2”
10.5”-16.0”
7GCBC
1800 lbs maximum
14.2”-19.2”
14.2”-16.3”
1325 lbs or less
10.5”-19.2”
NOTE
10.5”-16.3”
All measurements are aft of the datum line which is the wing
leading edge. Centre of gravity limits between weights are
straight line variations between these points. See Section V for
the flight envelope and loading instructions.
FLIGHT LOAD FACTORS (Normal and Acrobatic Category)
Positive Load
+5.0 G’s Maximum
Negative Load
-2.0 G’s Maximum
MANOEUVRES
The following aerobatic manoeuvres and entrance speeds are approved with no baggage and
the aft centre of gravity (C.G.) within the limits specified for the Acrobatic Category.
Chandelle, Lazy Eights ............................................................... 120 MPH CAS
Barrel or Slow Roll ..................................................................... 120 MPH CAS
Immelman .................................................................................. 145 MPH CAS
Loop or Clover Leaf..................................................................... 140 MPH CAS Split S
........................................................................................... 80 MPH CAS
Snap Roll ..................................................................................... 85 MPH CAS
Vertical Reverse............................................................................ 85 MPH CAS Cuban
Eight ............................................................................... 145 MPH CAS
REQUIRED PLACARDS
In Full View of Pilot
Operations Limitation Card

Citabria 1-4
(Includes all limitations listed in this Section in addition to weight and balance information)
Acrobatic Manoeuvres Limitation Card
In Baggage Compartment
“Maximum Baggage - 100 Lbs.” On
Forward Left Side Window
“Do Not Open Above 130 MPH”
“Do Not Open Above 90 MPH” - (For Full Opening Side Window)
Above Fuel Shutoff Valve
“Fuel 35 Gal. Usable - Down On”
On Emergency Door Release Handle
“Emergency Door Release - Pull Pin, Pull Handle”
PLACARDS (Continued)
Top Half Cabin Door - Forward (Split-type door only)
“Do Not Exceed 90 MPH With Door Open”
Right Window Sill (When folding rear seat is installed)
“Seat Back Restrainer Cable Must Be Connected Before Flight... Unless
Control Stick is Removed”
Adjacent To Strobe Light Switch
“Turn Off Strobe Lights When Taxiing In Vicinity Of Other Aircraft Or
During Flight Through Clouds, Fog, or Haze.
Standard Position Lights To Be On For All Night Operations.”
On Radio Panel (If radio installed)
“Compass Calibrated With Radio On”
On Fuel Caps
“Fuel 100LL Octane 18 Gals.”
On Instrument Panel
“Occupy Front Seat When Flying Solo”
On Battery Access Panel
“Service Battery Every 50 Hrs. of Normal Flight. Service Every 10 Hrs. of Acrobatic
Flight.”

Citabria 2-1
SECTION II
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
INDEX
GENERAL ....................................................................................................2-1
FIRE ..........................................................................................................2-2
ENGINE FIRE DURING START....................................................................2-2
ENGINE FIRE IN FLIGHT ............................................................................2-2
ELECTRICAL FIRE ......................................................................................2-3
ALTERNATOR ELECTRICAL FAILURE ......................................................2-3
ENGINE MALFUNCTION .............................................................................2-4
ENGINE FAILURE ON TAKE-OFF ...............................................................2-4
ENGINE AIR RESTART ...............................................................................2-4
PARTIAL POWER LOS / ROUGH RUNNING ..............................................2-5
ABNORMAL OIL PRESSURE / TEMPERATURE INDICATIONS .................2-5
LANDING EMERGENCIES ..........................................................................2-5
PRECAUTIONARY LANDING APPROACH .................................................2-5
FORCED LANDING (COMPLETE POWER FAILURE) ................................2-6
DITCHING ....................................................................................................2-6
UNUSUAL FLIGHT CONDITIONS ...............................................................2-7
SEVERE TURBULENCE ..............................................................................2-7
STALLS ........................................................................................................2-7
SPINS ..........................................................................................................2-7
INFLIGHT OVERSTRESS ............................................................................2-8
EMERGENCY EXIT / BAILOUT ...................................................................2-8
GENERAL
This section covers the recommended procedures to follow during emergency and adverse
flight conditions. As it is not possible to define every type of emergency that may occur, it is the
pilot’s responsibility to use sound judgement based on personal experience and knowledge of
the aircraft to determine the best course of action.
It is considered mandatory that the pilot be familiar with this entire manual, in particular, the
“Emergency Procedures” section to flight.
NOTE
All air speeds in this section are indicated airspeeds (lAS) unless stated otherwise.
FIRE.

Citabria 2-2
ENGINE FIRE DURING START
If the fire is believed to be confined to the intake or exhaust system (result of flooding engine):
1) Continue cranking engine with starter
2) Mixture Control-IDLE CUT OFF
3) Throttle-FULL OPEN
4) Inspect aircraft thoroughly for damage and cause prior to restart
If fire persists or is not limited to intake or exhaust system:
1) Mixture Control-IDLE CUT OFF
2) Fuel Shut-Off Valve on OFF
3) Electrical and Magneto Switches-ALL OFF
4) Exit Aircraft
5) Direct fire extinguisher through the bottom of the nose cowl or through the cowl
inspection door
ENGINE FIRE IN FLIGHT
1) Mixture Control-IDLE CUT OFF
2) Fuel Shut-Off Valve on OFF
3) Electrical and Magneto Switches-ALL OFF
4) Cabin Heat-OFF front and rear
5) Use hand fire extinguisher if available
6) Land immediately using “Forced Landing Procedures”
WARNING
Do not attempt to restart engine.
ELECTRICAL FIRE
An electrical, fire is usually indicated by an odour of hot or burning insulation.
1) Electrical Switches’ - ALL OFF (leave magneto switches ON)
2) Air Vents/Windows —OPEN if necessary for smoke removal and ventilation
3) Use hand fire extinguisher if available
4) If fire continues, land immediately
If fire/smoke stops and electrical power is required for the remainder of the flight, turn the
master switch ON followed by the desired-circuit switch. Allow sufficient time between turning
on each switch order that the faulty circuit may be located and switched OFF.
ALTERNATOR/ELECTRICAL FAILURE
An alternator failure is indicated by a steady discharge on the ammeter.
1) Master Switch —CYCLE in attempt to reset the overvoltage relay.
2) If excessive battery discharge continues, turn OFF all nonessential electrical equipment
to conserve battery power.

Citabria 2-3
3) Land as soon as practical as the battery will furnish electrical power for a limited time
only.
If only one circuit (e.g. Radio) appears to be inoperative, remove and replace the suspected
fuse with a spare of the same amperage rating. The ‘spare fuses are located above the regular
fuses in use.
NOTE
Engine operation is unaffected by a complete electrical system failure with the exception of the
engine starter.
ENGINE MALFUNCTION
ENGINE FAILURE ON TAKE-OFF
If sufficient runway remains:
1) Throttle-CLOSED
2) Land using maximum braking after touchdown.
If airborne and insufficient runway remains for landing, attempt an engine restart if sufficient
altitude permits:
1) Fuel Shut-Off Valve - CHECK ON
2) Mixture Control - FULL RICH
3) Carburettor/Alternate Air - FULL HOT
4) Magneto Switches - BOTH ON (Up)
If no restart is possible:
1) Select most favourable landing area ahead
2) Flaps FULL DOWN (7GCBC)
WARNING
Maintain flying speed at all times and do not attempt to
turn back toward the runway unless sufficient altitude
has been achieved.
ENGINE AIR RESTART
1) Maintain Airspeed -65 MPH minimum recommended
2) Magneto Switches - BOTH ON (Up)
3) Mixture - FULL RICH or as required at high altitude
4) Fuel Shut-Off Valve - CHECK ON
5) Carburettor/Alternate Air - FULL HOT
6) Engine Primer - CHECK OFF
7) If restart not possible, change throttle, mixture, primer, magneto, carburettor/alternate air
heat settings, in attempt to restart.
8) Follow “Forced Landing Procedure” if unable to restart.

Citabria 2-4
NOTE
The engine starter may be engaged in flight should the engine
stop wind milling.
PARTIAL POWER LOSS/ROUGH RUNNING
1) Follow the engine air restart procedures
2) Land as soon as practical using “Precautionary Landing Approach” procedures
Carburettor icing is indicated if a gradual RPM loss is noticed. The carburettor/alternate air
should be FULL HOT as long as suspected icing conditions exist.
ABNORMAL OIL PRESSURE/TEMPERATURE INDICATIONS
Oil pressure and temperature, problems are usually related with one affecting the other. Before
any drastic action is taken, cross check other engine instruments and control settings in an
attempt to determine the source of the problem.
High oil temperature is generally a result of loss of oil, overheating (note CHT if available) or a
malfunctioning oil cooler bypass valve. If the situation remains unchecked, oil pressure usually
drops resulting in possible engine damage. Power should be reduced while maintaining cruise
airspeed; place mixture in FULL RICH position and land as soon as practical.
Little or no oil pressure is usually caused by a failed pressure relief valve, pump, loss of oil,
clogged oil line, high oil temperature or a defective gauge. A landing should be made as soon
as practical using minimum RPM changes. Plan a “Precautionary Landing Approach” as
complete engine failure is possible at any time.
LANDING EMERGENCIES
PRECAUTIONARY LANDING APPROACH
A precautionary landing approach should be used whenever power is still available but a
complete power failure is considered imminent. Maintain a higher and closer pattern than
normal in attempt to remain in gliding distance of the intended touchdown point Use the normal
landing procedures in addition:
1) Airspeed —65 MPH recommended (60 MPH minimum)
2) Throttle —CLOSED when in gliding distance of runway
3) Flaps —LOWER AS NEEDED for increase in approach descent angle (7GCBC)
NOTE
Slipping the aircraft by cross controlling the rudder and ailerons will increase the rate of
descent both with, or without flaps. If a crosswind exists, place the lower wing into the wind.

Citabria 2-5
FORCED LANDING (Complete Power Failure)
If the engine cannot be restarted in flight, trim the aircraft to the recommended glide speed.
Remain within gliding distance of the intended of point of landing. Maintain a higher and closer
pattern than normal making allowance for wind.
Excessive altitude can be lost by extending flaps or slipping the aircraft. Diving the aircraft in an
attempt to lose altitude when flying into a headwind will only increase the required landing
distance.
1) Airspeed —Maintain 60—65 MPH
2) Mixture —IDLE CUT-OFF
3) Fuel Shut-Off Valve —OFF
4) Master Switch —ON
5) Flaps —UP to increase glide range (7GCBC)
6) Radio —MAYDAY 121.5 MHz
7) Attempt to position the aircraft approximately 1000 feet above ground level (AGL) over
the intended point of landing or 500 feet when downwind and abeam the intended point
of landing.
8) All Electrical Switches - OFF
9) On Final Approach
a. Airspeed —65 MPH (60 MPH minimum) –
b. Flaps —DOWN after intended point of landing assured (7GCBC)
10)Touchdown with minimum airspeed (three point full stall) if landing on rough terrain.
NOTE
If necessary, after aircraft has come to a complete stop,
remove and activate the emergency locator transmitter from
the aircraft for increased transmitting range.
DITCHING
Should it become necessary to make a forced landing over water, follow the “Forced Landing
Procedures” in addition to the following:
1) Cabin Side Door —JETTISON
2) Land into wind if high winds are evident or parallel to swells with calm winds
3) Flaps —UP (allows higher nose attitude at touchdown)
4) Contact the water with nose high attitude
5) DO NOT STALL prior to touchdown
6) After corning to complete stop - EXIT AIRCRAFT

Citabria 2-6
NOTE
Aircraft cannot be depended on to provide floatation after
contacting the water.
UNUSUAL FLIGHT CONDITIONS
SEVERE TURBULENCE
To prevent overstressing the aircraft do not exceed 120 MPH. in rough air. To minimize
personal discomfort, decrease the lAS below 80MPH. Maintain a level flight attitude rather than
flying by reference to the altimeter and airspeed indicator as the pitot—static instruments may
become very erratic.
STALLS
The Citabria stall characteristics are conventional. The stall warning horn, if installed, will
proceed the actual stall by 5—10 MPH depending on the amount of power used. There is
sufficient aerodynamic buffeting preceding the stall to provide the pilot with an adequate
warning.
Aileron control response in a fully stalled condition is marginal. Large aileron deflections will
aggravate a near stalled condition and their use is not recommended to maintain lateral control.
The rudder is very effective and should be used for maintaining lateral control in a stalled
condition with the ailerons placed in a neutral position.
To recover from a stall, proceed as follows:
1) Nose Attitude –LOWER with forward movement of control stick
2) Throttle –FULL OPEN simultaneously with control stick movement
3) Use rudder to maintain lateral control
SPINS
If a spin is inadvertently entered initiated, immediate recovery should be is as follows:
1) Throttle –CLOSED
2) Rudder –FULL DEFLECTION opposite direction of rotation
3) Elevator –SLIGHTLY FORWARD OF NEUTRAL
4) Ailerons –NEUTRAL POSITION
When rotation stops (1/2 - 1 turn after recovery initiated)
5) Rudder –NEUTRALIZE
6) Nose Attitude –RAISE smoothly to level flight attitude

Citabria 2-7
WARNING
During the spin recovery, the airspeed will build very rapidly with a nose low attitude. Do not
use full or abrupt elevator control movements.
IN-FLIGHT OVERSTRESS
Should an overstress occur due to exceeding the airspeed or load factor limits, aerobatics
should be terminated immediately. Fly at a reduced airspeed, (60 –70 MPH) to a suitable
landing point. Do NOT under any circumstances, make large control movements or subject the
aircraft to additional G loadings above that required for straight and level flight. After landing the
aircraft should be inspected by a mechanic prior to the next flight.
EMERGENCY EXIT/BAIL OUT
1) Throttle–CLOSED
2) Door –JETTISON using Emergency Jettison Handle
3) Use the cabin door frame for support. Dive straight out and slightly aft of wing struts.
4) Parachute –OPEN immediately when clear of aircraft
NOTE
Emergency ground exit is also possible through the
left window.

Citabria 3-1
SECTION III
NORMAL OPERATING PROCEDURES
INDEX
GENERAL......................................................................................3-1
PREFLIGHT INSPECTION ........................................................... 3-2
BEFORE STARTING .................................................................... 3-3
STARTING ....................................................................................3-3
TAXI .............................................................................................. 3-4
BEFORE TAKE-OFF ..................................................................... 3-5
TAKE-OFF (Normal) ...................................................................... 3-5
TAKE-OFF (Obstacle) ................................................................... 3-6
TAKE-OFF (Soft Field) .................................................................. 3-6
CLIMB ........................................................................................... 3-6
CRUISE ........................................................................................ 3-7
AEROBATICS ...............................................................................3-7
DESCENT .....................................................................................3-8
LANDING (Normal) ....................................................................... 3-8
LANDING (Obstacle) ..................................................................... 3-9
SHUTDOWN .................................................................................3-9
GENERAL
This section covers all recommended normal operating procedures using a checklist format
whenever possible with additional information if further explanation is required.
NOTE
All recommended airspeeds in this section are INDICATED
AIRSPEEDS (lAS) with the aircraft loaded to the maximum gross weight.
PREFLIGHT INSPECTION
1) Cabin
a. Cabin Door –CHECK condition, security
b. Flight Controls –CHECK freedom of movement
c. Magneto and Electrical Switches –OFF (check operation of lights if required and
stall warning system with respective switches ON).
d. Fuel. Quantity Gauges –CHECK quantity.

Citabria 3-2
e. Fuel Shut-Off Valve –ON
f. Seat Belts –CHECK CONDITION –SECURE rear belt and harness if not In use.
g. Emergency Locator Transmitter –ARMED
2) Right Wing
a. Wing Root Faring –CHECK secure
b. Flaps –CHECK condition, freedom of movement, security (7GCBC)
c. Aileron –CHECK condition, freedom of movement, security
d. Wing Tip and Light –CHECK condition
e. Wing and Struts –CHECK condition, security
f. Tie-Down –REMOVE
g. Pitot-Static Tube –CHECK unobstructed (visual check only)
h. Fuel –CHECK quantity, colour, cap secure
3) Right Main Gear
a. Chocks –REMOVE
b. Tires –CHECK condition, inflation
c. Brakes –CHECK condition, leakage
4) Nose Section
a. Windshield –CHECK condition, cleanliness
b. Oil –CHECK quantity, dip stick secure
c. Fuel –DRAIN gascolator –CHECK leakage
d. Engine Compartment –CHECK condition, leakage, etc.
e. Cowling and Inspection Door –CHECK condition, security
f. Propeller and Spinner –CHECK condition, security
g. Air Filter –CHECK condition
h. Landing Light –CHECK condition
5) Left Main Gear
a. Same as right main gear
PRE-FLIGHT INSPECTION (Continued)
6) Left Wing
a. Same as right wing, in addition
b. Fuel Vent CHECK unobstructed
c. Stall Warning Vane –CHECK freedom of movement (if installed)
7) Fuselage (Left Side)
a. Fabric –CHECK condition, oil, battery acid leakage, etc.
b. Windows –CHECK condition, cleanliness
c. Fuel Belly Drain –DRAIN, CHECK leakage
d. Radio Antenna(s) –CHECK secure
8) Ernpennage

Citabria 3-3
a. Horizontal Stabilizer and Brace Wires –CHECK condition, security
b. Vertical Stabilizer and Tail Light –CHECK condition
c. Elevator, Trim Tab and Rudder –CHECK condition, freedom of movement,
security
d. Tail Wheel –CHECK condition, inflation, .security.
e. Tie-Down –REMOVE
9) Fuselage (Right Side)
a. Same as fuselage left side (no fuel drain on right side)
BEFORE STARTING
1) Seat Belts/Shoulder Harness –FASTENED
2) Fuel Shut-Off Valve –ON
3) Brakes –SET
4) Electrical Switches –OFF
5) Cabin Door –CLOSED (windows as desired)
STARTING THE ENGINE
Engine cool
1) Mixture fill rich
2) Gas on
3) Prime about two strokes or as necessary
4) Master switch on
5) Ignition switches on
6) Throttle open slightly –1/4 to 1/2 in
7) Brakes on
8) Engage starter (do not operate starter continuously for more than 15 seconds) 9) If
no oil pressure 30 seconds after start, stop engine and determine cause.
Engine hot
For a hot engine, the procedure above should be followed except that priming is normally
unnecessary. A hot engine can be easily flooded. If this occurs, open the throttle completely and
turn the engine over until it fires. As engine starts, retard throttle to normal idle position.
To clear an engine that has been flooded due to excessive priming, proceed as follows:
1) Mixture –IDLE CUT-OFF
2) Throttle –FULL OPEN
3) Magneto Switches –OFF
4) Starter –ENGAGE for several propeller revolutions 5) Repeat normal starting procedure
using no prime

Citabria 3-4
CAUTION
Limit the use of the starter to 30 seconds duration maximum
with a two minute cooling off period between each starter
engagement.
During cold weather operation, (below 20 F) it is recommended that the engine be preheated
by directing warm air through the opening in the bottom or front of the engine cowl. This practice
will prolong the service life of the engine and starter.
During the ground operation, the mixture should be FULL RICH and the carburettor air COLD to
insure good engine cooling and filtered air. Prolonged idle below 1000 RPM is not
recommended due to plug fouling and insufficient cooling air when the aircraft is not in motion.
TAXI
Taxi operations during high winds requires the conventional use of the flight controls. With a
head wind or quartering head wind, place the control stick full aft and into the wind. With a tail
wind or quartering tail wind, use the opposite procedures. The use of the wheel brakes in
conjunction with the rudder will assist the pilot in maintaining directional control.
BEFORE TAKE-OFF
1) Brakes –SET
2) Flight Controls –CHECK freedom of movement, proper operation
3) Elevator Trim –SET take-off position
4) Flight Instruments/Radio(s) –CHECK and SET
5) Flaps –SET as desired (7GCBC only)
6) Fuel Shut-Off Valve –ON
7) Mixture –FULL RICH (lean as required for high altitude)
8) Engine Instruments –CHECK normal indications
9) Engine Run-Up –1800 RPM (Elevator Control –FULLBACK)
a. Magnetos –CHECK (200 RPM maximum drop, 50 RPM maximum differential)
b. Carburettor/Alternate Air –CHECK operation then return to COLD position
c. Engine Instruments –CHECK normal indications
d. Throttle –1000 RPM
10)Cabin Door and Windows –CLOSED and LATCHED
11)Seat Belts/Shoulder Harness –FASTENED
High power operation (above 2200 RPM) and engine run-up should be made into the wind and
kept to a minimum especially during high temperature conditions. The stick should also be held
fill aft to prevent the possibility of the aircraft nosing over.
TAKE-OFF (Normal)
1) Flaps –UP (7GCBC)
2) Throttle –FULL OPEN applying smoothly
3) Engine Instruments –CHECK normal indications
4) Attitude –RAISE TAIL to level flight attitude