01/11/2008
When it comes to the heart of an aircraft, the engine, there's no room for compromise. The question of whether Continental uses Original Equipment Parts is paramount for any owner or operator seeking reliability and longevity. As a factory-authorised distributor for Continental Motors, we pride ourselves on supplying genuine Continental Motors factory engines, along with authentic Continental Motors cylinder kits and spare parts. This ensures that every component fitted meets the exacting standards set by the manufacturer, guaranteeing optimal performance and safety.
Understanding Continental Motors' Commitment to Quality
Continental Motors is renowned for its unwavering dedication to quality and precision engineering. This commitment extends from the production of brand-new engines to the meticulous process of factory rebuilding. When you choose a Continental Motors engine, whether new or factory-rebuilt, you are investing in a product built to 'factory new limits'.
Factory Rebuilt Engines: The Absolute Zero Time Advantage
The term 'zero-time' is often used in the aviation industry, but it's crucial to understand what it truly signifies, especially when it comes to Continental Motors. A factory-rebuilt engine is not merely a cosmetic refresh; it's a complete overhaul that returns the engine to a condition equivalent to a brand-new unit. This is achieved by adhering to the same production processes used for new engines. Only the original manufacturer, Continental Motors in this case, is authorised to rebuild an engine to zero time using factory parts that meet new limits. This ensures that every single component is either new or has been refurbished to factory specifications, eliminating any wear or tear accumulated from previous operation.
The Assembly Line Philosophy
Continental Motors operates with a singular philosophy: every engine on the assembly line, regardless of whether it's a new build or a factory rebuild, is treated with the same level of care and precision. This unified approach ensures consistency and adherence to the highest quality standards. The facility is certified under the AS9100 Quality Management System, a rigorous standard specifically designed for the aerospace industry. This certification underscores Continental Motors' dedication to producing engines that meet stringent FAA Production Certificate and AS9100 Quality Systems Standards. This means that both new and factory-rebuilt engines are built to the same 'factory new limits', providing peace of mind to operators.
Locating the correct Continental Motors part number is the first step towards ensuring your engine receives the genuine components it deserves. If you know the specific part number you require, our intuitive search box is the quickest way to find it. Alternatively, for those who prefer to browse our extensive stock, a dedicated section allows you to explore our comprehensive range of Continental Motors parts. Our role as a factory-authorised distributor means we maintain a significant inventory of these crucial components.
When to Call Before You Overhaul
The decision to overhaul an engine is significant. Before embarking on this process, it's always advisable to consult with experts. We encourage our customers to 'CALL BEFORE YOU OVERHAUL' to discuss the specifics of their engine and the best course of action. Understanding the 'facts about factory rebuilt absolute zero time' engines can help you make an informed decision about whether a factory rebuild is the most suitable option for your needs.
Maintaining Your Lycoming Piston Engine After Inactivity
While our focus is on Continental Motors, we also recognise the importance of comprehensive aviation maintenance knowledge. The following advice, provided by Chris Regent, Engineering Manager at our piston engine maintenance facility in Oxford, UK, offers crucial insights into maintaining Lycoming piston engines, particularly after periods of inactivity. This information, while specific to Lycoming, highlights general principles of engine preservation that can be valuable for any aircraft owner.
The Dangers of Incorrect Ground Running
Chris Regent highlights a critical point: "Simply ground running an engine, even for an extended period, can be more damaging than not doing anything." This might seem counterintuitive, but it's due to several factors. Acids and corrosive compounds generated during combustion contaminate the engine oil. Unless the aircraft is flown, these contaminants are not properly expelled. This is because the crankcase breather system doesn't function optimally when the aircraft is on the ground. Furthermore, achieving the correct operating temperatures and engine load is difficult during ground runs, exacerbating the problem.
Two Key Options for Inactive Lycoming Engines
For Lycoming engine owners facing periods of inactivity, two primary options are recommended:
- Following Lycoming SL180B: If an aircraft remains unflyed for 1 continuous hour over a 30-day period, the procedure outlined in Lycoming SL180B for 'Inactive aircraft' must be followed.
- Pre-emptive Preservation: If it's known that an aircraft will be inactive for 30 days or more, a specific preservation procedure should be applied, especially in humid environments or near saltwater.
The preservation procedure involves:
- Oil Replacement: Drain the existing lubricating oil and replace it with a preservative oil mixture. This mixture typically consists of one part by volume of MIL-C-6529C Type I concentrated preservative compound added to three parts by volume of MIL-L-6082C (SAE J1966), Grade 1100, mineral aircraft engine oil, or oil conforming to MIL-C-6529C Type II. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. We can supply Castrol Brayco 481 and Aeroshell straight mineral oil if required.
- Engine Operation: Operate the engine until normal operating temperatures are achieved.
- Warm-Up Duration: Do not stop the engine until the oil temperature has reached at least 180°F (82°C). In freezing conditions, the oil temperature should reach at least 165°F (73°C) before shutdown.
- Cylinder Preservation: Remove sufficient cowling to access the top spark plugs and remove them. Through the spark plug holes, spray approximately two ounces of the preservative oil mixture into each cylinder using an airless spray gun (e.g., Spraysystems Co., Gunjet Model 24A-8395 or equivalent). If an airless spray gun isn't available, a moisture trap can be fitted to a conventional spray gun. We offer an inhibiting gun for loan.
- Dehydrator Plugs: Install dehydrator plugs in place of the removed top spark plugs. We have these plugs in stock.
- Sealing Orifices: Blank all open orifices, including intake, exhaust, and breather openings.
- Labelling: Attach a label indicating the date of inhibiting and the instruction 'Do Not Turn'.
This process requires careful attention to detail. We are always happy to assist aircraft owners or their maintenance companies with expert advice, necessary consumables, or by undertaking the work directly.
Continental vs. Other Manufacturers: A Comparison of Standards
While the Lycoming maintenance procedures offer valuable insights, it's important to reiterate the superior standards upheld by Continental Motors. When comparing engine manufacturers, the emphasis on Original Equipment Parts and factory-certified processes becomes a key differentiator.
| Feature | Continental Motors (Factory Rebuilt) | Other Rebuilders (General) |
|---|---|---|
| Parts Used | Genuine Continental Motors Factory Parts | May use OEM or aftermarket parts |
| Overhaul Standard | 'Factory New Limits' | Varies; may not meet OEM new limits |
| Manufacturing Process | Identical to new engine production | May differ from OEM processes |
| Quality Certification | AS9100 Certified | Varies; may not have aerospace-specific certification |
| Zero-Time Guarantee | Absolute Zero Time (built as new) | Often described as 'zero time' but may not meet OEM definition |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Does Continental Motors exclusively use Original Equipment Parts for their engines?
Yes, when you purchase a new or factory-rebuilt engine directly from Continental Motors or an authorised distributor, you are assured that it is built using genuine Continental Motors factory parts.
Q2: What does 'Absolute Zero Time' mean for a Continental engine?
'Absolute Zero Time' signifies that the engine has been rebuilt by Continental Motors using the same processes and to the same limits as a brand-new engine, effectively having zero hours since its complete factory overhaul.
Q3: Can any workshop rebuild a Continental engine to zero time?
No, only Continental Motors is authorised to rebuild engines to zero time with factory parts meeting new limits. This ensures the highest standards of quality and compliance.
Q4: What are the benefits of using genuine Continental Motors spare parts?
Using genuine parts ensures compatibility, reliability, and adherence to the original design specifications, ultimately contributing to the engine's longevity and performance.
Q5: Where is 'check_circle engine repair & overhaul' based?
For specific information regarding 'check_circle engine repair & overhaul', it is recommended to arrange a call with their team to discuss your requirements.
Conclusion
In the aviation industry, the integrity of an engine is non-negotiable. Continental Motors' steadfast commitment to using Original Equipment Parts and adhering to stringent manufacturing and rebuilding standards, such as those covered by their AS9100 certification, sets them apart. Whether you are purchasing a new engine or opting for a factory-rebuilt unit, you are guaranteed a product built to 'factory new limits'. Understanding and implementing proper maintenance procedures, as highlighted by the Lycoming guidelines, is also crucial for all aircraft owners. Always prioritise genuine parts and factory-authorised expertise to ensure the safety and performance of your aircraft's engine.
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