Blog

Last week, we shared a selection of flying-related education, training, and entertainment resources for pilots staying grounded during this time of social distancing. Still, we understand if you’re itching to get back inside the cockpit. Sometimes the next best thing to flying is to be at the hangar, working on your airplane. Plus, with more time on your hands, you can finally get around to tackling maintenance tasks and sprucing up your aircraft.

Here are some ways you can use this downtime to take care of your airplane:

Spring clean your airplane

A clean airplane is a happy airplane. Treat your aircraft to a thorough cleaning inside and out, clearing away any bugs, dirt, or debris that may have accumulated on surfaces. Follow up with a wax or sealant to protect the paint and prevent corrosion. When cleaning the propeller, we recommend using a mild solution of dish soap and water. Harsh cleaning products can strip away paint and damage internal components.

Check all vitals and inspect for damage

Regular check-ups can extend the life of your airplane and prevent safety hazards in the future. Keep your hands busy by testing the battery, checking the tire pressure, examining fuel lines for damage or leaks, and changing the oil if needed. Walk around the airplane and examine it thoroughly for signs of wear and tear. Even if your aircraft was hangared indoors, it could still sustain winter damage. Make sure you inspect for cracked seals and corrosion. Finally, keep an eye out for evidence of birds or rodents that may have nested in the nooks and crannies of your airplane over the winter. Feathers and droppings are not a good sign.

Make a wish list of upgrades and modifications

Now is also a great time to consider the updates or improvements you want to make to your airplane. Dreaming of a more powerful engine/propeller combination? How about Alaskan bush wheels, floats, or skis? Maybe a new, glass-panel avionics system is in your future. Use your downtime to research the possibilities, talk to other pilots, and ask plenty of questions.

A propeller conversion is one of the most popular upgrades – and one of the smartest investments you can make for the safety and performance of your aircraft. If your current prop is nearing overhaul time, or if you’re simply ready for a performance boost, take a look at Hartzell’s Top Prop conversion program. Our Top Prop conversion propellers come with the longest warranty for propellers in the industry, all the way through the first overhaul. Our extended warranty helps pilots reduce the costs of flying and encourages safety through periodic maintenance. Best of all, we make the propeller conversion process easy for owners by supplying the STC paperwork, new prop, and spinner.

Contact us today to learn more about our Top Prop program and speak with one of our technical specialists about your needs. We’re happy to help you find the best propeller system for your specific aircraft and mission profile.