Sneetch,
Good on you for having one of the most important aspects of flying right from the start - a willingness to learn more and understand the aircraft. Everyone is the same with something new but over time you'll develop your knowledge and be a lot more confident. As previously stated, ask as many questions as you need to, and make sure you understand something, not just memorize it.
Until your licenced and endorsed on the aircraft, you shouldn't be expected to preflight it alone so the instructor can have a coffee. When I was an instructor there was no way I would take one flying without making sure it was OK myself first! There's a legal responsibility there too. The instructors and engineers if they are worth their salt should always be able to answer your questions, even if they don't have the time immediately and have to get back to you on it.
If your not sure of everyting, or if your pushed for time, at least check the most important things for safety - fuel for water (and quantity!), oil levels, flight controls and structural attachments. And never overlook the basics, its one thing to check the play in a bearing but is the engine cowl secure, rotors untied etc?
Happy learning!
Last edited by the coyote; 14th July 2002 at 02:50.