SECTION 10 PERIODIC MAINTENANCE/CONTINUING AIRWORTHINESS
THE FOLLOWING TESTS MUST BE PERFORMED A MINIMUM OF EVERY TWELVE CALENDAR MONTHS, TO ASSURE THE CONTINUING AIRWORTHINESS OF THE ELT.
1.) Inspect the ELT transmitter and mounting tray to insure all fasteners, and mechanical assemblies are secure.
2.) Inspect the coaxial cable connecting the ELT transmitter to the antenna for cuts or abrasions on its outer jacket. Disconnect the BNC connector at each end. Examine both BNC connectors and the mating plug on the ELT transmitter, and antenna base for any signs of corrosion.
3.) Inspect the modular cable connecting the ELT to the RCPI unit for signs of wear or abrasion on it’s outer jacket. Remove the modular plug connecting the ELT transmitter
to the connecting cable, and inspect the jack and plug assembly for corrosion.
4.) If a GPS is interfaced to the ELT, inspect the modular cable connecting the ELT to the GPS unit for signs of wear or abrasion on its outer jacket. Remove the modular plug connecting the ELT transmitter to the GPS and inspect the jack and plug assembly for corrosion.
5.) Check the expiration date of the RCPI battery and audio alert battery in the aircraft log book. Check the expiration date of the battery pack and replace if necessary.
6.) Leave the ELT in the “Armed” position, then remove the ELT from the aircraft, and perform a G switch test as follows:
This test should be conducted between the hour, and 5 minutes after the hour per FCC requirements. Tune an aircraft radio, or hand held aircraft radio to 121.5 MHz. The radio should be in close proximity to the area where you will conduct the test.
TURN THE SQUELCH CONTROL ALL THE WAY DOWN, OR OFF. You should be hearing white noise on the radio. If switching the main switch from the “Off” to the “Armed” position wait at least 15 seconds before performing this test. While in the “Armed” position, hold the ELT at your waist with the arrow printed on the battery case facing away from you. Move the ELT rapidly away from your waist. When the ELT reaches the full extent of your arm, retract it back to your waist as fast as possible. You should hear the 121.5 MHz sweep tone in the radio. AS SOON AS YOU HEAR THE TONE, IMMEDIATELY TURN THE MAIN SWITCH ON THE ELT TO THE “OFF” POSITION.
The ELT when activated transmits on 121.5 MHz for approximately 50 seconds before a 406 MHz burst is sent to the satellites. This is a live burst which will immediately notify the COSPAS/SARSAT system that there is an emergency. IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT YOU DO NOT ALLOW AN ACTIVATED ELT, TO TRANSMIT FOR MORE THAN 30 SECONDS DURING G SWITCH TESTING.
7.) Reinstall the ELT, make sure the cables are secured, and properly connected. Make sure to seal the din connector if the ELT is connected to the aircraft GPS. (Page 8 Fig. 12.5) Place the main switch in the “Armed” position, and install the rubber cover over the main switch opening.
8.) Perform the self test described in section 9 to verify proper operation.