217.276
Figure 11-16.—Tire slippage mark.
putting a small amount of suitable leak detection
solution (Leaktec) or soapy water on the end of the
valve and watch for bubbles. Replace the valve core if
it is leaking. If no bubbles appear, it is an indication
that the inner tube (or tire) has a leak. When the tire
and wheel assembly shows repeated pressure loss
exceeding 5 percent of the correct operating inflation
pressure, it should be removed from the aircraft and
sent to the AIMD or IMA.
WARNING
Overinflation or underinflation can
cause catastrophic failure of aircraft tire
and wheel assemblies. This could result
in injury, death, and/or damage to
aircraft or other equipment.
After making a pressure check, you should always
replace the valve cap. Be sure that it is screwed on
fingertight. The cap prevents moisture, salt, oil, and
dirt from entering the valve stem and damaging the
valve core. It also acts as a secondary seal if a leak
develops in the valve core.
Tires that are equipped with inner tubes, and
operate with less than 150 psi, and all helicopter tube
tires must use tire slippage marks. The slippage
mark is a red paint strip 1 inch wide and 2 inches
long. It extends equally across the tire sidewall and
the wheel rim, as shown in figure 11-16. Tires should
be inspected for slippage on the rim after each flight.
If the markings do not align within one-fourth of an
inch, the wheel assembly should be replaced and the
defective assembly forwarded to the AIMD or IMA for
repair. Failure to correct tire slippage may cause the
valve stem to be ripped from the tube.
11-17
