RickJames

Verifying that the takeoff config warning is actually working as part of the cockpit preflight for every flight and performing a takeoff config check before every takeoff is what McDonnell Douglas recommended after Northwest 255. (16 August 1987)

1) As part of the cockpit preflight, check that the takeoff configuration warning will actually work with the aircraft not configured for takeoff - ie move thrust levers forward at the gate with engines off and btchn betty will yell at you.
2) Part of the taxi or before take off check, when properly configured for takeoff, move thrust levers forward out of idle and back, and you shouldn't hear a thing.

So if the takeoff config warning didn't test correctly or for some reason did, but then failed, no warning would be annunciated with an aircraft in an incorrect takeoff configuration. However, flaps/slats setting can still be visually verified by looking at the setting on the thrust lever quadrant and the indicator lights near the engine displays. If the takeoff config warning annunciator is working and takeoff power was set without proper flap setting, the crew would hear it.

Cycle Pilot hit the nail on the head IMO. Gotta visually check flap position.

Those of you that fly the maddog know that if she were a person, she'd be a smart toddler. You have to double check whether of not she's done what you want done - all the time.