I understand that only FTOs, not RFs have to have an 'approved' flying order book?
We worked out a simple list for the PA28 together with associated restrictions based on commonsense and experience - never had any problem. For example, we require that 2 radios must be serviceable for fligh above overcast cloud. This is the list we use:
Radio: 1 VHF Comm radio shall be serviceable. With only 1 serviceable VHF Comm, the aircraft shall not be operated above overcast cloud.
Intercom: Shall be serviceable with more than 1 aircraft occupant.
Transponder: If unserviceable, the aircraft shall be flown dual only or by qualified licence holders approved and briefed by the Duty Instructor. ATC shall be informed of the unserviceability.
GPS: Warrior II aircraft – No restrictions. Cherokee 140C aircraft – VHF element of Comm 2 (GPS/Comm) shall be serviceable if Comm 1 is unserviceable.
Parking brake: Shall be serviceable.
Toe Brakes: Shall be serviceable on LH side.
(RH side shall also be serviceable for early dual lessons)
Engine oil leaks: If minor, one ferry flight to the maintenance organisation may be flown with the specific authorisation of the CFI. Suspected leaks shall be notified to the Duty Instructor before flight.
Starter motor: If unserviceable, the aircraft shall not be flown.
Alternator: If unserviceable, one day VMC ferry flight to the maintenance organisation may be flown with the authorisation of the CFI.
Suction pump: If unserviceable, one day VMC ferry flight to the maintenance organisation may be flown with the authorisation of the CFI.
Carb Heat: If unserviceable, one day VMC ferry flight to the maintenance organisation may be flown.
Primary Flying Controls: Shall be serviceable.
Flaps/Trimmers: Shall be serviceable.
Stall Warner: Shall be serviceable.
Fuel System:
Electric Pump: If unserviceable, one ferry flight to the maintenance organisation may be flown. Aircraft Commanders shall use the maximum runway length available on departure and shall minimise flight time below 1000 ft agl.
Fuel Leaks: The aircraft shall not be flown.
Magnetic Compass: If unserviceable, the aircraft shall not leave the aerodrome circuit except for one day VMC ferry flight to the maintenance organisation.
Artificial Horizon: If unserviceable, the aircraft may be flown in day VMC only.
Direction Indicator: If unserviceable, the aircraft may be flown on dual local flights in day VMC only.
Pitot Heater: If unserviceable, the aircraft may be flown in day VMC only.
Internal Lighting: Shall be serviceable for Night Flying.
Navigation Lights: Shall be serviceable for Night Flying.
Landing Light: If unserviceable, Night Flying may only be conducted with the approval of the Duty Instructor at the Commander’s discretion.
Fin Beacon: Shall be serviceable for Night Flying.