Private Pilot Flight Training and Instruction Flight Training Article Library | Back To 4VFR.COM The Cockpit Using the tape recorder I go over all the instruments and controls. I pay particular attention to the markings and divisions on the dials, their degrees of accuracy, reliability, and source of power. I display aircraft papers and manual and recommend future study and perusal. I emphasize positioning of pilot, setting of seats, belts, windows and doors. I introduce positioning of controls and switches. I demonstrate the setting and release of the parking brake. This is information often omitted in checkouts. I will recommend that the parking brake not be used as a normal procedure because of its unreliability. I demonstrate operation of primer, throttle clutch, and fuel shut off valve. I show how the last few inches of rearward yoke movement goes up as well as back. Most of all I introduce the way the radio knobs and switches work. With the Master Switch on I will show how successive counts of 1-2-3-4 will give 10 degrees of additional flap. We will note irregularities on the flap indicator and practice getting the count so that we get 10 degrees every time. This eliminates one additional distraction during the landing process. Written by Gene Whitt Flight Training Article Library | Back To 4VFR.COM