My First Annual Inspection

Doc · Dec 14, 2016

So, I got to assist my IA with my first annual on the Saratoga. It was a great experience, and despite all the work I've had done and watched over the past year, I learned a ton and had fun doing it. I learned how to remove the middle row of aft-facing seats, and remove the floor panel underneath, inspecting the turnbuckles, pulleys, fuel lines and pump, and various wires and connections. I like to think I helped, but with all of my questions, I'm fairly certain it took longer than if he did it without me there. Nevertheless, he did say I'd receive an owner-assisted discount for removing all the caps, panels, interior, cowling, wheel pants, etc, and generally being a go-fer for his tools. I especially enjoyed inspecting the fuel system and all of the lines, vents, drains, sumps, filters, etc. I highly recommend at least being present during an annual.

And on a side note, I think I'm going to leave the aft-facing seats removed as I rarely have more than 4 people in the plane - it's HUGE in the back with them out, and I'm sure my passengers will enjoy the extra legroom.