Sometimes when we test products, we learn things we would rather not know. For instance, we didnt know that an ordinary carbon vane vacuum pump gets too hot to touch after three or four minutes at operating speed. We also werent aware that on takeoff roll, some pumps are whirring along at 4200 RPM while the prop loafs along at two thirds of that speed. And we definitely werent prepared for the ear-splitting screech these things emit at high RPM.
During a typical pre-buy inspection or an annual for that matter most of the expensive scrutiny is aimed at the engine, that pricey lump of parts that can soak up money like a dry sponge in water. No one thinks much about fuel tanks, bladders and wet wings because, well, they arent very sexy.
There arent many certainties in the realm of aircraft maintenance, but we can think of at least one: Not every pilot knows a good paint job when he sees it, but anyone can spot a 100-footer that looks nice from across the ramp but is a speckled, orange-peeled mess when viewed at close range.
Thanks to new manufacturing technology, rebuilding ancient alternators no longer makes sense. Plane-Power and B&C lead the pack, but competition is heating up.
Roller lifters have taken off in Experimentals and are already in some production engines. They may improve cam life, but it’s too soon to confirm that.
Both devices definitely reduce crankcase condensation and thus corrosion. With its lower flow, the Engine Savers desiccant lasts longer.
With powerful permanent magnets, lightweight starters spin faster and save up to eight pounds. They make better sense than repairing an old Delco.
For landing lights, GEs popular 4509 bulb has appallingly short life. Galaxy is the hands down winner. Quartz Q4509s are worth the higher price.
But our tests show that results vary widely from lab to lab. One techs highly suspect sample may be anothers perfectly normal. Its the trends that count.
But our tests show that results vary widely from lab to lab. One techs highly suspect sample may be anothers perfectly normal. Its the trends that count.
None of the products tried work miracles, so avoid damage in the first place. Otherwise, patience and elbow grease-plus a power buffer-will yield decent results.
Its not the money, its the hassle. All the engine storage products we tried are effective. The hard choice is flyable storage versus long-term pickling.
