The Whiskey Compass
Part II
By Jared Christensen, Installation Supervisor

The Problems:

1. The gasket can swell, pinch out of position and leak fluid or allow it to evaporate, making the compass useless.
2. Even a shiny new compass is worthless unless a compass swing has been performed and a valid correction card affixed on or near the compass.
3. Compass card becomes worn and illegible over the years if not replaced.
4. The compass/compass card becomes inaccurate through normal maintenance of the aircraft.

The Rules:

AC43.13-1B Chapter 12-37 states: A compass swing must be performed on the following occasions:

1. When accuracy of the compass is suspected.
2. After a cockpit modification or major replacement involving ferrous metal.
3. Whenever a compass has been subjected to shock; for example, after a hard landing or turbulence.
4. After aircraft has passed through a severe electrical storm.
5. After a lightning strike.
6. Whenever a change is made to the electrical system.
7. Whenever a change of cargo is likely to affect the compass.
8. When aircraft operation is changed to a different geographical location with a major change in magnetic variation.
9. After aircraft has been parked on one heading for over a year.
10. When flux valves are replaced.

The Solution: Kings Avionics, Inc., Salt Lake City, UT.

© Kings Avionics, Inc.