normb@tekred.UUCP (Norm Babcock ) (07/12/85)
Thanks to everyone who made inputs regarding the 172 that makes very sharp left turns on touch-down. The problem was a sticking left wheel brake. How did it get stuck? Glad you ask. I used to fly a 152 with out of balance wheels, and to avoid the shaking after take-off, as the wheels slowed, I got into the habit of applying the brakes. Pilots who don't do this as a matter of course, never had a problem with this 172, as the wheels remained free through- out the flight, and touchdown. I'm glad to report that the problem is cured, but I'm not sure I'll fly this particular plane anymore. You'll recall a few months ago that the yoke stuck on landing in Hillsboro, and nearly gave me a heart attack. I can take a hint; third time is the charm; or as the french say: never two without a third. Norm tektronix!tekred!normb p.s. Anyone in the west want to be a fire-fighting bomber pilot right now?
djmolny@wnuxb.UUCP (DJ Molny) (07/16/85)
Applying the brakes after take-off is not such a bad idea. In fixed-gear aircraft, it prevents the kind of vibration Norm mentioned. In retractibles, it keeps an unbalanced tire from jamming inside the wheel well, leading to embarassing problems during the landing checklist. Because spinning tires have very little inertia (compared to the aircraft as a whole), only a light application of the brakes should be needed. Regards, DJ Molny ihnp4!wnuxa!djmolny