On Fri, 07 Nov 2003 07:34:56 -0900, Scott Skylane
wrote:

aaronw wrote:

In the C-172SP I fly I do:

/snip/
A quick glance at the engine gauges to ensure that oil pressure (above
all else) is in the green.

aw

Sooo, what do you do if the oil pressure is not in the green? You DON'T
land???

Well, I land, but it would be nice to know if it is having troubles
BEFORE possibly having to extend my downwind due to other traffic in
the area. Yes, I'll be on the ground in 60 seconds or so, but I'd
prefer not to get surprised.

Since I'm low to the ground, my gliding distance in case of engine
failure is lower, and every second I spend in downwind once I pass the
threshold is carrying me further away from the airport.

Yes, engine failure at any time is bad, and I be ready for it anytime,
but there is a lot of stuff taking up my concentration when manuvering
in the pattern, so I just do a quick glance to make sure all is as
good as it gets.

aw