The subject: A 25-year-old Twin Commander
The problem: The pilot had noticed that for about a week the gear control lever felt loose/sloppy. It wasn’t providing a solid and firm movement. When it finally broke, the landing gear handle wouldn’t control the gear.
Troubleshooting: Further investigation found the failure was the roll pin that attached the gear handle arm to the valve. A sloppy gear lever movement is a symptom that should not be overlooked.
Anytime a control feels different it should be checked out by an A&P mechanic at a Twin Commander Factory Authorized Service Center.
