An engine overhaul is one of the biggest and most expensive aircraft repair and maintenance tasks that owners have to face. Overhaul costs generally increase with time due to the fluctuating prices of engine parts and equipment. It has also become a specialized procedure for aircraft maintenance.
As for most mechanics, they do not overhaul engines themselves. The engine is generally removed and sent out for an overhaul. Communication is key when it comes to ensuring that every element of your overhaul is covered. As a professional aviation repair and maintenance company, we’ll discuss general information about engine overhauls. Keep reading to find out more.
Time Between Overhauls - TBO
The manufacturer of the aircraft usually defines the time between overhauls. It is suggested to indicate the service life between overhauls when flown at a minimum interval. The reason why aircraft power plants were built was that they love flying. Suppose they were used less frequently than this advised interval. In that case, they would be more susceptible to moisture buildup and corrosive elements in the oil, which will reduce the motor's service life when it is not regularly brought to operating temperature.
Additionally, some engines would be subjected to harsh conditions, which should also be considered. An engine's lifespan is shortened if it is used primarily in dry, dusty environments, close to salt water, in various climates, or any combination of these. There is a good reason why roadside assistance is not standard on airplanes. It’s the same reason why you should stick to your TBO.
When Does An Engine Overhaul Become Necessary?
An engine is built to bear the tolerances specified. When it’s brand new, its tolerance is high, and its performance is at its peak. But, as with all mechanical devices, the engine will start to wear and tear with time, affecting its tolerance, and ultimately decreasing its performance.
This is where an engine overhaul plays a crucial role in getting the engine back to its optimum performance. With excessive wear and tear, oil consumption can increase, power can decrease, and the risk of failure can increase. An overhaul is not only about engine inspection and parts evaluation; it also deals with the repair and replacement.
Engine inspection and component evaluation play an important role in the aircraft's life and can save your aircraft from potential underdevelopment problems. Inspection is a vital part of the overhauling process, this can't be done carelessly during the process.
When crankcase cracks in an engine exceed acceptable limits, it's time to replace it. If an engine has problems producing its rated power even though cylinder compressions are good and the fuel tank is working properly, an overhaul is likely needed in the near future.
What Is Included In An Aircraft Engine Overhaul?
There are two types of overhaul: major and top overhaul. This includes the disassembly, inspection to evaluate damaged, defective, or run-down parts, the repair or replacement of these parts, and reassembly. The aircraft must also undergo testing and a trial run before becoming fully operational. There are two types of engine overhaul;
Top Overhaul
A top overhaul implies an overhaul of those parts on top of the crankcase without fully disassembling the engine. It includes the removal of different parts, such as the exhaust collectors, ignition harnesses, and intake pipes.
Major Overhaul
A major overhaul comprises the complete remodeling of the power plant. A reciprocating engine would require the crankcase to be dismantled; a major overhaul is not generally a major repair.
Also Read: The Advantages Of Preventative Aircraft Maintenance
General Overhaul Procedures
Due to the different types of aircraft engines and continuously changing technologies, it’s quite challenging to specify the engine overhaul of every aircraft. However, there are some general and nonspecific procedures that every engine has to go through during an overhaul.
To begin with, any engine that has to go through an overhaul should receive a runout check of its crankshaft or propeller shaft. The questions regarding crankshaft or propeller shaft replacement are resolved at this time because a shaft whose runout is beyond its limits has to be replaced.
About Acorn Welding
We are a reputable group of technology and innovation-driven aircraft specialists and welders in the aviation industry. We offer a wide range of excellent aviation services, including component replacement, regular maintenance, and inspections. We work with vintage aircraft all over the world as well, and we aspire to be the top aviation specialists. Learn more about Acorn Welding and our services.
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