Verify the angles of incidence, the dihedral angle, the stagger, and the overall measurements as often as possible (at least once a week) and correct as outlined in notes on assembly and adjustment of airplanes.
Constantly examine the alignment and fittings of the undercarriage, the condition of tires, shock absorbers and the skids. Verify the rigging position of the ailerons and elevators.
Constantly inspect the locking arrangements of the turnbuckles, bolts, etc.
Learn to become an expert at vetting, which means the ability to judge the alignment of the airplane and its parts by eye. Whenever you have the opportunity practice sighting one strut against another to see that they are parallel. Standing in front of the machine, which in such a case should be on level ground, sight the center section plane against the tail plane and see that the latter is in line. Sight the leading edge against the main spars, the rear spars, and the trailing edges, taking into consideration the “washin” and “washout.” You will be able to see the shadow of the spars through the fabric. By practising this sort of thing you will, after a time, become quite expert, and will be able to diagnose by eye faults in efficiency, stability and control.
The following order should be observed in the daily and weekly inspections:
Daily Inspection.—All struts and their sockets, longerons, skids, etc.
All outside wires and their attachments.
All control levers or wheels, control wires and cable and their attachments.
All splices for any signs of their drawing.
Lift and landing gear cables or wires for any signs of stretching.