Give latches T-L-C

PS: The Preventive Maintenance Monthly, Dec, 2004

Operators and mechanics, your first inclination when something doesn't work properly is to kick, bang or force it.

That seems to be the case with the Apaches, engine cowling door latches. They get plugged with sand in the desert and become hard to close.

When sand clogs the door latches, blow the sand out with air and slap a little dry film lubricant. NSN 9150-00-926-8963 on the latches to help them close easier.

Using your foot to force latches to lock only bends or breaks them. Then you'll be looking at replacing broken latches.

So stop your foot dead in its tracks and don't kick the latches to close them!