PA31 Engine Failure Drill

[43Inches]

The answer is Yes and No,

The original protection mechanism is what you have described;

The 1 second delay cut-out only occurs if one flap is against a limit switch (fully retracted or extended) and the other is not.
If both flaps are off the limit switch then full assymetry can posibly occur.
Flaps on these aircraft are controlled by the two way switch, you hold the switch in the direction you want flap to travel and monitor the flap guage for position.

In serial numbers 31-7952001 onwards the system has a number of sensors which monitor both flaps position and cut-out the system if a split of 5 degrees or more occurs (no delay). These aircraft have a user freindly flap handle with detents for each flap stage.

However no matter which system you have the basic rules are the same;

1. Don't extend flap with autopilot engaged (it will mask the roll)
2. Extend flap in small increments at a time, Piper recomend no more than half second application in the old paddle type switch.
3. A further recomendation by piper on old models is use no more than 15 degrees flap if the flap breaker has a popping history as it indicates a flight load issue.

With the PA31 know what serial number you are flying and the difference between them. There are some critical speed and operating changes throughout the range even though they all look the same.