Engine Removal and Replacement

Procedures for removing or installing an aircraft engine usually vary widely with the type of aircraft and the type of engine. Thus, no single list of instructions can be provided as a guideline for all engines. Because of the many types of engine and aircraft installations and the large number of design variations within each type or category, representative examples have been selected to illustrate the most typical installation procedures for reciprocating, turboprop, and turbofan engines. There are some common tasks that must be accomplished when replacing an aircraft engine. Most engines require disconnecting and reconnecting electrical, hydraulic, fuel supply, intake and exhaust air path components, engine controls, and engine mounting connections to the airframe.

Reciprocating engines and gas turbine engines are used in this site to describe and represent general and typical procedures for engine buildup, removal, preservation, storage, and installation. Although these two types of engines have some common areas, each procedure has been included to ensure adequate coverage of the engines used in both heavy and light aircraft. It should be emphasized that while procedures for specific engines and aircraft are included in this post, many pertinent or mandatory references have been omitted because of their irrelevance to a general discussion. For this reason, always reference the applicable manufacturer’s instructions before performing any phase of engine removal or installation.

Reasons for Removal of Reciprocating Engines

General Procedures for Engine Removal and Installation

Inspection and Replacement of Powerplant External Units and Systems

Preparing the Engine for Removal

Removing the Engine

Hoisting and Mounting the Engine for Installation

Preparation of Engine for Ground and Flight Testing

Propeller Check

Checks and Adjustments After Engine Runup and Operation

Removal and Installation of an Opposed-Type Engine

Engine Installation

Turbine Engine Powerplant Removal and Installation

Turbofan Powerplant QECA Removal

Installation of Turbofan Engines

Rigging, Inspections, and Adjustments

Turboprop Powerplant Removal and Installation

Reciprocating Helicopter Engine and QECA

Engine Mounts

Preservation and Storage of Engines

Engine Preservation and Return to Service

Engine Shipping Containers

Inspection of Stored Engines

Preservation and Depreservation of Gas Turbine Engines