What is the main purpose of inspecting shock struts?

Inspecting shock struts primarily serves the purpose of looking for leakage and ensuring proper extension. Shock struts play a critical role in the landing gear system by absorbing and dissipating the energy from landings, which helps maintain aircraft stability and performance on the ground. During an inspection, it is essential to identify any signs of fluid leakage, as this can indicate a failure in the strut's seals or internal components, potentially leading to a loss of performance or safety issues during subsequent landings.

Additionally, inspecting for proper extension is crucial in verifying that the struts are functioning correctly and can adequately absorb shocks during takeoff and landing. If the struts are not extending properly, it could compromise the aircraft's landing gear capabilities and overall safety. Therefore, the focus on leakage and correct extension during inspections is vital for ensuring the integrity and functionality of the shock strut system.