tubing damage, as well as vent blockage. A functional  check of the fuel vent system can be done simply by  opening the fuel cap. If there is a rush of air when  the fuel tank cap is opened, there could be a serious  problem with the vent system. Check the steering bars for freedom of movement,  for proper steering line attachments, and confirm the  steering bars are securely attached. Inspect the rear wheel and axle assembly. Check the  tires for proper inflation, as well as cuts, bruises, wear,  bulges, imbedded foreign objects, and deterioration.  As a general rule, tires with cord showing, and those  with cracked sidewalls are unairworthy. Check the  axle and axle hardware, and inspect that the wheels  rotate properly. Pay particular attention to the  fuel quantity, type,  grade, and quality. Many fuel tanks are sensitive to at- titude when attempting to fuel for maximum capacity.  The powered parachute attitude can also be affected  laterally by a ramp that slopes. Always confirm the  fuel quantity indicated on the fuel gauge(s) by visu- ally inspecting the level of the fuel tank(s). The engine manufacturer recommends the type of fuel  that any given powered parachute engine should burn;  this recommendation should be strictly conformed to.  Although most PPC engine manufacturers recom- mend premium grade auto fuel, it is usually accept- able to burn 100LL AVGAS on a limited basis. Most  airports will not have auto fuel available on the field.  Check the oil reservoir to ensure the proper oil is  used. Check the oil level during each preflight and  after each refueling. [Figure 5-10] If the consumption  of oil steadily increases or suddenly changes, quali- fied maintenance personnel should investigate. After  checking or adding oil to the PPC, ensure that the oil  cap has been securely replaced. The oil reservoir on a  two-stroke must be checked for adequate venting; if  this becomes plugged, it could cause starvation of the  oil to the engine. Two cycle engines without oil injection premix the  oil with the fuel. Assure the mixture ratio is correct.  Proper mixing techniques is covered in the fuel sec- tion. Ensure the fuel caps have been securely replaced  following each fueling and the vents are free and  open. Most powered parachutes have an inline fuel  filter located somewhere between the tank and the  carburetors; check the fuel filter for contaminates.  [Figure 5-8] The fuel tank vent is an important part of all preflight  inspections. [Figure 5-9] Be alert for any signs of vent  Inspect the propeller for any signs of propeller blade  chafing, and defects such as cracking. Check the pro- peller for large nicks in the leading edge, cracks, pit- ting, corrosion, and security. All propeller tape should  be securely attached to the propeller surface, paying  special attention to the convex side of the propeller  for any delaminating; propeller tape is used primarily  for protection on the leading edge of the propeller as  well as a supplemental balancing device. Check the  propeller hub for security, bolt threads showing and  general condition. Fuel and Oil Figure 5-9. Inspect that the fuel tank vents are free of dirt  and debris to prevent fuel starvation during flight.  Figure 5-8. Inspect the inline fuel filter during preflight.  Powerplant Inspection 5-8