Page 23 - August 2023

the handle, now what? The Beech Abnormal Procedures checklist specifically includes a procedure for getting things back to normal after a practice manual extension ... since, of course, at some time the handle has to be stowed to return to normal.
This extra procedure directs you to rotate the C-ring counterclockwise and let it return down to floor level. What this should do is release the manual system and allow the motor to again take control. The little snag is that, sometimes, it binds up and does not release. How do we know? Because the ratchet handle is still stiff and hard to move. Remember that we’re not supposed to pump any more, due to the probability of damaging something, so stroking the handle again in hopes of releasing the binding is not a good idea.
Here’s the technique that almost always works: Place the gear handle in the up position. (You will have to use the downlock release button since with the landing gear relay circuit breaker (CB) that pulled the handle’s downlock hook remains engaged.) Now, “bump” the CB. What this means is to grasp the CB firmly between thumb and finger, push it in only until you hear the motor start to run, then immediately pull it out again. In other words, we give just a little bump to the motor. Invariably, this trick frees up what was binding the manual extension handle. Make sure the handle moves freely – which I am
sure it will – and go ahead and stow it in the retaining clip. Depending upon where you want the gear to be, either verify your airspeed is below gear retraction speed, push the relay breaker in, and watch the gear retract normally. Or leave the handle down, reset the breaker (the motor will probably run for just a fraction of a second) and verify normal gear down indications.
Thanks for the good question. I welcome readers to ask about anything at all, King Air related, and I hope I can provide a clarifying answer. KA
King Air expert Tom Clements has been flying and instructing in King Airs for over 50 years and is the author of “The King Air Book” and “The King Air Book II.” He is a Gold Seal CFI and has over 24,000 total hours with more than 16,000 in King Airs. To order his books, go to KingAirBook.com. Tom is actively mentoring the instructors at King Air Academy in Phoenix.
If you have a question you’d like Tom to answer, please send it to Editor Kim Blonigen at editor@blonigen.net.
AUGUST 2023
KING AIR MAGAZINE • 21