Getting your plane out of winter storage

Step-by-Step Guide

Here's a step-by-step guide to ensure your aircraft is ready for takeoff, featuring products from Boeing Distribution (formerly Aviall) to help you along the way.

1. Battery Maintenance

Start by checking the condition of your battery. A fully charged battery is crucial, as the first start after a period of inactivity places a heavy demand on it.

• Remove the battery from the aircraft.
• Use a rapid or fast charger if the battery type is designed for it (such as AGM or gel lead-acid batteries). Previous recommendations to charge the battery with a slow, trickle charge have been found to be incorrect for certain battery types. Some lead-acid batteries can accept higher charging currents, but it is essential to refer to the manufacturer's specifications for the specific battery being used.
• If you need a battery replacement, Boeing offers a wide selection of batteries from suppliers such as Concorde, Gill, Saft, and more.
• If your battery just needs servicing, we also offer a full suite of battery repair services.

2. Fuel Inspection

Next, inspect your fuel for water contamination. Water can accumulate due to leaky fuel caps or condensation.

• Check the fuel before moving the aircraft to avoid agitation that can mix water and fuel.
• After moving the aircraft, wait at least 30 minutes to allow any trapped water to settle, then check the sump points again.
• Use an aircraft fuel tester: The probe is inserted into the quick drain, allowing a fuel sample to fill the tube for visual inspection of water contamination.

3. Brake Check

The condition of your brakes is vital for safety. If the aircraft has been unused for a while, brakes may seize.

• Inspect the brake calipers to ensure they can float freely around the disc.
• Look for any signs of hydraulic fluid leaks or a sticky substance around the pistons, which may indicate issues with the brake piston o-rings.
• For any necessary replacements, Boeing Distribution offers a range of wheels and brakes that meet stringent safety standards.

4. Hose Checks

Inspect all hoses for signs of wear, cracks, or leaks. Hoses can deteriorate over time, especially if exposed to extreme temperatures or environmental conditions.

• Ensure that fuel and hydraulic hoses are secure and free from any damage.
• Consider using Eaton Aeroquip hoses, known for their durability and reliability in aviation applications.
• Replace any hoses that show signs of wear to prevent potential failures during operation.

5. Walk-Around Inspection

Conduct a thorough walk-around of your aircraft:

• Remove all control locks, pitot and static blanks, and any engine blanks you may have applied.
• Check for any "stowaways" such as birds, animals, or insects that may have taken residence in your aircraft. Pay special attention to the engine bay and pitot/static vents, as blockages here can lead to instrument failure.
• Check pitot/static cover and inspect for replacement.

6. Engine Preparation

If your engine has been stored for several months, it should have been treated with storage oil, and desiccant plugs should have been placed in the spark plug holes. Here's how to prepare the engine:

• Remove the desiccant plugs and turn over the engine without compression. This allows the oil pump to circulate oil quickly, ensuring lubrication.
• After turning the engine over, replace the spark plugs with high-quality spark plugs from Champion and others.
• Check and replace the oil filter to ensure proper oil flow and filtration. A clogged or damaged oil filter can lead to inadequate lubrication and engine performance issues.
• Start the engine for a brief ground run to warm the oil, making it easier to drain and replace with fresh oil.

7. Lubrication of Aircraft Components

Don't forget to lubricate other areas of your aircraft:

• Use AeroShell Grease 6 for light aircraft joints, such as flap and control surface linkages.
• Pack wheel bearings with AeroShell Grease 5. If the old grease appears dark and hard, it's time to replace it.
• For engine oil, consider using the premium options to ensure optimal engine performance.

8. Clean Up

The most often-used examples of interior and exterior clean-up products are:

• Zip-Chem and Celeste carry interior cleaners for all your needs (surface cleaners, general cleaners, glass cleaners, disinfectants, air fresheners). Perrone is well known for leather treatment (conditioners and cleaners).
• Zip-Chem, Eastman, LPS, and Celeste offer exterior cleaners for general surface cleaning and removing stubborn materials.
• Windshield cleaners like PRIST are great for cleaning acrylic and plastic windows.