I think Dave's comments were meant as a joke, at least I hope so. Back to Linda's original question, it is true that pertinent information needed for maintenance and inspection of our ships is scattered over a wide range of sources and that makes it sometimes difficult to find or re-find data. What has been helpful for me was to generate and constantly update a document entitled "Maintenance and Inspection Notes". It's geared mainly for the annual inspection and is specific to my aircraft. It's grown over the years, but still fits on one page. It's divided up into sections. For instance, there is a section that gives reference data for the recurring AD's that apply to my airplane. In addition to the key data that Paul gave us for AD 81-07-06, I also might have other more mundane information (socket size needed, part ordering info, and what not) , anything that makes it easier for future inspections.
I also made a few forms that have proved useful. As one example, I typically collect engine run-up data both before and after inspection and having a form insures that I don't miss something. It also gives acceptable ranges for various engine checks that I can refer to and allows me to check directly for any changes that may have occurred between pre and post inspection. When an actual physical measurement is called for, rather than looking up the spec each year, I make a gauge. If you are just starting out, I know this stuff can be overwhelming. My advice would be start small. When you learn something new and pertinent, document it and as time goes by things will begin to come together. Cheers, Bill Linda said: So is finding mechanical answers a matter of reading all of the ADs & all of the service manual & all SBs & SMs up front, and then "just" remembering whether/where a topic has been addressed? Or is there some sort of an index that directs you to all the cumulative written sources that apply to each task, or even each system?
