Podcast: Play in new window | Download
January 30, 2016
Ever thought about changing the oil and filter on your airplane? If not, this might be a good time to think about it.
As an owner, you can do an oil change on your airplane, and sign off the work in your maintenance records… just take a look at the Federal Aviation Regulations. In Part 43, Appendix A, item #23 on the list of approved preventive maintenance items says:
(23) Cleaning or replacing fuel and oil strainers or filter elements.
So, you can do this! And if you listen to today’s podcast, perhaps you can pick up a few tips that will help you.
The main thing is, the first time you do this, get some help from someone who has experience in this task… this is absolutely the best way to get started.
A quick drain makes it easy to drain the oil.
My favorite safety wiring tools… listen to the podcast and find out what I do with each of these.
Example of a properly safety wired oil filter.
When you are looking for an oil filter cutting tool, the one on the bottom in this picture is much preferred, and far easier to use.
If you enjoyed this podcast, leave me a comment below. And, if you have an idea of another topic you would like to hear about, let me know that as well. I’d also be interested in any oil changing tips you might want to share as well.
Thanks!
Thank you again for another informative and valuable session! I am equipped with the safety wiring tools (same as the ones in the picture) and look forward to learning more from you about performing an oil change. This podcast also prompted me to research the different types of oil and I now have a deeper understanding of the different properties of various types of aircraft engine oil.
Thumbs up!
Thanks Elizabeth! One other thing I don’t remember if I mentioned in the podcast, is the size of safety wire to use on an oil filter. Typically, it is .032 (thirty two thousandths.) There are a number of different safety wire sizes, but .032 is the most common one used on airplanes. Happy safety wiring!