This strut relies on compressed gas, usually nitrogen, and hydraulic fluid to absorb the massive impact forces of landing. When the aircraft touches down, the strut compresses, forcing oil through a small orifice to dampen the shock. It prevents the aircraft from bouncing back into the air and protects the airframe from structural damage.
Heard on the job
Check the main gear oleo extension before we tow her out, it looks a little flat.
Insider tip
Mechanics check the exposed chrome on the oleo strut during preflight; too little chrome means the nitrogen charge is low.
Also heard as
- oleo strut
- shock strut