Tips for Properly Maintaining and Storing Airplane Engine Stands

Recently, while conversing with a friend, I asked him what he thought was the most important knowledge to have in the aviation industry, following his ten years of experience in the field.

I expected him to say something like attracting and retaining talent or leveraging technology in aviation. To my surprise, he said the most essential knowledge in the aviation industry, especially for an engineer, is understanding how to take care of tools and equipment. The conversation inspired me to share some tips for properly maintaining and storing one of the most vital pieces of equipment in maintenance: engine stands. 

How to Prepare Engine Stands for Storage

A common mistake when storing engine stands is to put them into storage as they are. However, this only paves the way for structural damage over time owing to environmental factors or elements the stands had been predisposed to before storage. Here is how you can get ahead of this:

• Proper cleaning: Dust, dirt, and debris on the engine stand surface can result in structural deterioration. You can eliminate these by using a pressure washer, which will loosen the dirt even in the nooks. Follow through with the right cleaning agent – check what’s advisable by looking at the stand’s manual. Not only will cleaning ensure that the stand looks neat and presentable but it will also protect it from corrosion while in storage.

• Adequate lubrication: Moving parts are subject to rusting and corrosion, especially in storage. You can mitigate this risk by applying a suitable lubricant on all the moving parts. Now is also a good time to check for and address any damaged parts that could expose the stand to more damage.

• Environmental preparation: While you may have cleaned and oiled the engine stand, all your work will only be worthwhile if the storage environment is optimal. It should be kept in clean, dry, and well-ventilated rooms. Prepare a room to meet all these conditions.

Also, check the manufacturer’s manual for any special preparation requirements that may apply to your engine stand.

How to Store Engine Stands

Can you just leave an engine stand in a clean, airy, dry room and call it a day? Not at all. Storage practices matter a great deal. Here’s the correct way to store it:

• Focus on stability: Engine stands should ideally be on a flat surface where they are stable, as this prevents them from falling over. Additionally, you should not stack heavy objects on them as this can impact their weight-handling capacity.

• Address environmental elements: Placing the stand in a temperature-controlled and well-ventilated area is a good step. You can compound your efforts by covering it with a protective cover that bars the entry of dust and other environmental elements.

If you follow these steps, your stand should be in the same condition you stored it in.

Proper Maintenance Practices for Engine Stands

Good storage is a lot like the indemnification feature in insurance – it does not harm an engine stand nor boost its functional or aesthetic state. Instead, it retains it as it was. The aspect that affects your engine stand the most is how you maintain it while it is in use. As such, it’s best to follow the steps below:

• Perform visual checks: They are prone to wear, damage, and corrosion during use. Regularly checking for such deterioration and addressing it promptly can save you time and money.

• Replace missing or worn-out parts: The integrity of the engine stand hinges on its parts. If nuts, bolts, or other parts go missing or suffer damage, replace them immediately.

• Use corrosion-resistant coatings: Not only is this crucial when the engine stand shows signs of corrosion, but it is also important for routine maintenance tasks.

• Lubricate all moving parts: All manufacturers set out the right lubrication schedules and processes for their engine stands. Follow these to ensure the moving parts work as required.

• Train your employees: Anyone using the engine stands should understand how to use them properly. This knowledge should extend to weight limits, cleaning procedures, and safety measures. Providing employees with a copy of the manufacturer’s manual is advisable to prevent workplace accidents or engine stand damage.

• Prepare for emergencies: Unforeseen events, like fires, can leave your employees unsure of the best way to handle the engine stand. Develop and communicate the best standard procedures for these events.

Maintaining airplane engine stands is a great way to boost their durability and reliability. It also helps you save on replacement costs in the long run. As with everything else in the aviation industry, you should keep documentation about all inspections and repairs on the stands. Hopefully, this three-minute read gave you insights on how to maintain and store airplane engine stands to improve the durability and reliability of this useful tool.

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