Dynamic Propeller Balancing is the process whereby
a computerized balancer is used to measure the vibration produced
by the aircraft power plant. Small trim balance weights are
added to the propeller spinner or bulkhead assembly to correct
for errors in mass distribution and to reduce power plant vibration
to the lowest level practical.
Vibration
is a waste of energy and a major cause of premature component
failure. It can create noise, generate cracks in airframes and
engine accessories and cause problems with avionics.
We
use FAA-approved procedures and the latest, state-of-the-art,
computerized equipment (ACES
Systems) to diagnose and solve your propeller balancing
problems. Our equipment is inspected and calibrated by the factory
every twelve months to insure quality and accuracy.
Vibration
analysis should be done when local winds are under 15 knots
and not gusting. The entire procedure can usually be completed
within two hours.
Balancing
can be performed here or at your location. Note: There is
an extra charge to travel to your airport.
If
your aircraft meets acceptable vibration levels without the
addition of weights, you pay only the analysis fee. A complete
Report, including a Spectrum
Survey, is provided to the owner at the completion of the
job.
Vibration Analysis Only (single engine)...........................................$
250.00 and up
Vibration Analysis and Diagnosis (single engine)..............................$
325.00 and up
(includes weight installation and paperwork)
Note:
Fees vary depending on the the labor required to remove the
engine cowling and the location of the permanent balance weight(s).
Contact us for more information and specific pricing on your
aircraft.
Not
all propeller balancers are the same. Before you hire someone
to balance your prop...
- Ask
them how long they have been balancing props. We've
been dynamically balancing props on piston aircraft for
almost 20 years. We have experience with RVs, Lancairs,
Pipers, Cessnas, Beechcrafts, Navions, etc.
- Ask
them what kind of equipment they are using. We use the
ACES
Cobra II, recognized around the world as the finest
prop balancer on the market. Some of the cheaper balancers
make the technician "guess" what size weight and
where to put it. A real hit-and-miss method. The ACES computer
automatically determines the amount of weight and where
to put it. Most balance jobs are completed in 3 runs.
- Ask
them when they last had their equipment calibrated. Unless
it has been calibrated by a lab with standards traceable to
NIST, their readings are probably inaccurate and that .02
figure they tell you about might really be a .08. Our equipment
is calibrated annually by the factory.
- Ask
them if their equipment provides a detailed Analysis
Result and a Spectrum
Survey printout. We can provide complete documentation
to be included with the aircraft records.
- Ask
them if they are permitted by the FAA to balance the props
on production aircraft, such as Piper and Cessna, and legally
return the aircraft to service.
Personnel at North Texas Avionics are A&P IA rated and
have that capability.
