Leak Checks

Visual Inspection

• • • Examine the pitot tube, static ports, and associated tubing for any visible damage, cracks, or loose fittings.

Visual Inspection

• • • Ensure that the pitot tube is unobstructed (free from dirt, insects, or ice) and that the drain hole is clear.

• • • Connect a Laversab pitot-static tester to the aircraft pitot tubes and static ports through appropriate adapters.
    • Apply pressure (usually around 150 knots equivalent airspeed) to the pitot system.
    • Monitor the airspeed indicator (ASI) for any sudden changes or deviations.
    • Hold the pressure for about a minute and observe if there’s any drop in indicated airspeed or altitude. This can be accomplished through the “Leak” mode from the Laversab Pitot-Static test system.
    • Slowly release the pressure to avoid damaging the ASI.

Alternate Static Source Check:

• • • • While in flight, switch to the alternate static source (if your aircraft has one).
      • Observe any changes in airspeed and altitude indications.
      • If there’s a significant difference, it could indicate a leak in the primary static system.

• • • The difference between dynamic pressure (from the pitot tube) and static pressure (from the static ports) is the pitot-static pressure differential.
    • This differential pressure is used to calculate the aircraft’s airspeed.
    • The airspeed indicator in the cockpit displays this calculated value.

Regular Maintenance:

• • • • Schedule routine inspections to ensure the pitot-static system remains leak-free.
      • Address any issues promptly to maintain accurate instrument readings.