Configure Engines

Why Engine Configuration Matters

Accurate engine data enables:

• TBO Tracking - Know when your engine is approaching recommended overhaul
• Maintenance Scheduling - Set oil changes and service intervals based on hours
• Resale Value - Accurate times are essential for aircraft valuation
• Compliance - Track mandatory inspections and ADs that apply to your engine

Adding a New Engine

Engines are typically added during the aircraft setup wizard. To add an engine to an existing aircraft:

1. Go to Airframes and select your aircraft
2. Tap the gear icon to open Aircraft Setup
3. In the Powerplants section, tap Add Powerplant
4. Enter the engine details (see fields below)
5. Tap Save

Engine Information Fields

Powerplant Details

Basic identification information:

• Manufacturer - Engine maker (e.g., LYCOMING, Continental, Rotax)
• Model - Specific model designation (e.g., IO-360-L2A, O-470-U)
• Serial Number - Unique identifier from the engine data plate
• Date of Manufacture - When the engine was built
• Engine Type - Reciprocating, Turboprop, Turbojet, etc.
• Number of Cylinders - For reciprocating engines (4, 6, etc.)

Time Tracking

Critical hours for maintenance scheduling:

• Current Tach Time - Total hours on the engine (updates when you log flights)

Installation Details

When and where the engine was installed:

• Installation Position - Only, Left, Right, Center (for multi-engine)
• Date of Installation - When installed on this airframe
• Airframe Time at Installation - Airframe hours when engine was installed

Overhaul History

Record major and minor overhaul information:

• Tach Time at Major Overhaul - Engine hours when major overhaul was performed
• Date of Major Overhaul - When the major overhaul occurred
• Tach Time at Minor Overhaul - Hours at last top overhaul (if applicable)
• Date of Minor Overhaul - When top overhaul occurred

Multi-Engine Aircraft

For twins and multi-engine aircraft:

1. Set the correct Number of Powerplants in the wizard (or Aircraft Setup)
2. Configure each engine separately
3. Use Installation Position to identify each engine:
   • Left - Port engine
   • Right - Starboard engine
   • Center - For some tri-motor configurations

Flight logs will track hours for each engine independently.

Editing an Existing Engine

1. Go to Aircraft Setup for your aircraft
2. In the Powerplants section, tap the engine you want to edit
3. Expand any section by tapping on it
4. Make your changes
5. Tap Done within each section, then Save at the top

Adding Notes

Use the Notes section to record important information:

• Previous ownership history
• Known issues or quirks
• STCs or modifications installed
• Service bulletins complied with
• Overhaul shop and warranty information

Retiring an Engine

When an engine is removed from service permanently:

1. Open the Engine Editor for that powerplant
2. Scroll to the bottom
3. Tap Retire Powerplant (red button)
4. Confirm the retirement in the dialog

Engine Data Sources

Where to find accurate engine information:

• Engine Data Plate - Manufacturer, model, serial number
• Engine Logbooks - Times, overhaul history, installation dates
• Last Annual Inspection - Current times as of inspection
• Type Certificate Data Sheet - Official specifications
• Overhaul Shop Records - Detailed overhaul information