P-Ponk Conversions

We’re often asked: “What ADs apply to a P-Ponk engine conversion”?

Since it is not TCD’d, we do not list the O-470-50 (for example).

Here’s a note from PPonk’s website:

“Super Eagle Engine Conversion 1990 – 2019

We have sold our Super Eagle O-470-50 STCs which will now be provided through NorthPoint Aviation of Brainerd MN. In the future, you will see the engine marketed as the NorthPoint XP470. For STCs and additional information including currently authorized engine builders, please contact Joe Birkemeyer at NorthPoint: 218 829-3398 joeb@northpointaviation.net”

Check out PPonk’s website for detailed info: https://pponk.com/engines/

We contacted Joe Birkemeyer (of NorthPoint) about it, some time ago, and this is what he told us:

“We do not have any AD’s issued specific to the O-470-50. I would revert to the engine model that was used for the conversion to the Continental O-470-50 for the AD listing. For example, if they used an O-470-R to convert, use AD’s pertinent to that model or if they used an IO-520-D for the conversion, use AD’s pertinent to that model.

Thank you.

Joe Birkemeyer”

Visit NorthPoint’s Website: http://northpointaviation.net/

There’s some online chatter about the conversions. Here’s one article on the subject:

https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2020/july/29/faa-concerned-about-converted-continental-engine-crankshafts

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Have more questions? Need help? Contact Us

Monday thru Thursday: Open from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Friday, Saturday, Sunday & IA Seminars: The office is Closed. Calls, voicemails and emails will be responded to within a reasonable amount of time.

Champion Slick Magnetos

A most recent popular topic has been (Champion) Slick Magnetos.

Q: Is there an AD requiring a 500 hour overhaul?

A: No. Most shops “require” one, imposed by their own standards, and those of the manufacturer. There is no AD requiring a 500-hour overhaul on Slick magnetos.

Q: Is there any documentation to reference the overhaul?

A: Yes. Champion has issued 2 Service Bulletins: SB1-15 and SB 1-15A.

SB1-15 makes reference to a 500-hour time-in-service warranty period, however SB1-15A makes no reference to the 500 hours. Be sure to read both documents slowly and carefully.

Q: Why doesn’t Zook Aviation include this SB in the AD Toolbox?

A: Every service document (Bulletin, Letter, Alert, etc) must be directly AD-Referenced for us to include it on our site. Since there is no AD for the 500-hour overhaul, we have no method to attach the Service Bulletin. So, we’ve included it here on our blog for your convenience.

To access the Service Bulletins, click the images below:

Helpful Links:

Cessna Owner – 500 Hour Magneto Inspection:

The 500 Hour Magneto Inspection

Aviation Pros – Champion Recalls Magnetos:

https://www.aviationpros.com/engines-components/aircraft-engines/piston-engines-parts/news/12438456/champion-aerospace-recalls-all-4300-and-4700-series-slick-magneto-distributor-gears-with-copper-electrodes

Champion – Slick Magnetos:

Slick Magnetos

Champion – Technical Support:

Technical Support

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Have more questions? Contact Us

Monday thru Thursday: Open from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Friday, Saturday & Sunday: The office is Closed. Calls, voicemails and emails will be responded to within a reasonable amount of time.

Two BIG Announcements

Both Pilatus and Gulfstream made some pretty big announcements, unveiling two new additions to the skies.

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Pilatus PC-12 NGX Turboprop lightweight hitting the scales at a mere 6,087 lbs:

Pilatus is appealing to the public service sector, highlighting the versatility and applications of Air Ambulance, Surveillance, Search and Rescue, and Cargo Transport, while leaving the luxury factor last in line. Deliveries will begin in the 2nd quarter of 2020. Learn more:

https://www.pilatus-aircraft.com/en/news-events/media-release/the-world-s-best-turboprop-better-than-ever-pilatus-reveals-the-pc-12-ngx

Specs on the NGX: https://www.pilatus-aircraft.com/en/fly/pc-12

News Release PDF: https://www.pilatus-aircraft.com/data/news/Pilatus-Aircraft-Ltd-Media-Release-PC-12%20NGX-NBAA.pdf

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Gulfstream G700 Biz Jet, weighing in at max takeoff of 107,600 lbs.

Gulfstream has kept it’s focus on the business market, highlighting aesthetics, comfort and performance. It anticipates deliveries in 2022. Learn more:

https://www.gulfstream.com/aircraft/gulfstream-g700