Call it overkill but after reading about a fatal accident where the leading edge devices for some reason failed to extend during the before takeoff checks, I must admit to always after that, looking through my side window to confirm the LED's on my side were indeed extended in the 737-200. Strangely enough I didn't ask the occupant of the other seat to check his side. But it gave me peace of mind if nothing else. The use of idle reverse on the ground in the 737-200 was frequently "cracked" to keep taxi speed within commonsense limits.without having to ride the brakes so at least we knew they worked before take off. These little quirks were considered good airmanship by some and and superfluous nonsense to others.