Ground checks for the Curtiss P-40 Warhawk from Pilot Training Manual for the P-40, Headquarters, AAF, Office of Flying Staff, 1943.
P-40 Pilot’s Ground Checks
Before you get into your airplane, look it over closely. Walk around and inspect the wings, fuselage and control surfaces. Look carefully; take your time.
Before you climb into the cockpit be sure you have checked all of the following:
1. Check your tires and tailwheel. See that the struts have plenty of clearance. An instruction plate on each strut shows the necessary clearance.
2. Make sure the cover is off the pitot tube.
3. See that the covers are on the gun hatches.
4. See that the caps are fastened tightly on the gas, oil, and coolant tanks.
5. Make sure the Dzus fasteners are secure, and check the fairing on the entire ship for looseness.
6. Find out whether the propeller has been pulled through. It needs at least four turns if the engine is cold.
7. See that the wings and wingtips are not damaged.
8. Check canopy for proper tolerance.
