Which maintenance practice is crucial for avoiding hydraulic failures in landing gear?

Maintaining hydraulic systems is critical for the safe operation of landing gear, as these systems are responsible for the extension and retraction of the gear. Hydraulic seals play a vital role in preventing fluid leaks, which can lead to a loss of pressure within the hydraulic system. If seals become worn or damaged, hydraulic fluid can escape, resulting in compromised performance of the landing gear, posing safety risks during takeoff and landing.

Regular inspection and timely replacement of hydraulic seals help ensure that the hydraulic systems function properly, maintaining the necessary pressure to operate the landing gear effectively. This proactive maintenance practice helps avoid potential hydraulic failures, contributing to the overall reliability and safety of the aircraft.

Other maintenance practices, while important for different aspects of aircraft maintenance, do not directly impact the hydraulic systems and are less critical for preventing hydraulic failures in landing gear. Regular tire rotation, for instance, focuses on tire wear and performance; cleaning the fuselage pertains to aerodynamics and appearance, while adjusting cockpit controls addresses flight control systems rather than hydraulic functionality.