How to Inspect Your Aircraft Ground Power and Towbar Units

Posted by Aero Specialties on July 20th, 2018

Protect the investment of your ground support equipment with inspections that are vital to the productivity and safety of your employees. Inspections and routine maintenance will aid in extending the life of your equipment. It will also aid in reducing the time lost to unscheduled maintenance and wait times. Don’t wait until you need a plane out of its hangar to discover a problem with your aircraft pushback. Below are some inspection tips to help you keep your equipment running smoothly.

Aircraft Towbar

When utilizing a towbar, you should routinely verify that no bolts or pins are missing and that they are securely attached to the towbar. Ensure that the towbar is straight and the head is securely attached. Inspect the shear pin bushings and the shear pin to ensure neither is cracked or broken; these components take the brunt of the load when the aircraft is being pushed or towed. You should also remove the pins and inspect for any crookedness, cracks, or dents. Record any irregularities or notes in your preventative maintenance log.

Aircraft Ground Power

You should inspect your aircraft ground power unit prior to use every time. Visually inspect the outside for loose hardware, parts that have loosened, wires or cables with frayed components, you should also inspect brakes, tires, and tow bar latch before use. In addition, you should complete an in-depth inspection regularly which includes:

· Wiring, connections, and sensors checked for bare spots or tightness

· Inspect all clamps on intake hoses and exhaust piping for tightness

· Check engine for leaks, and review that engine mounts are tight

· Examine coolant levels and ensure that the radiator cap is in good condition

About AERO Specialties

Dedicated to quality and customer service, all AERO Specialties sales and support staff possess extensive knowledge of aircraft handling and maintenance. Ready to assist and advise, employees customize every aircraft servicing need to suit you. Not only providers of high-quality and aircraft tug, tow tractors, but AERO Specialties also specializes in aircraft solutions in Baggage and Cargo Handling, Intercom Systems, Hydraulic Fluid services, and Aircraft Lighting. They offer such parts as Towbar and Towbar Head Ball Lock Pins, Shear Pins, Oxygen Charge Adapters, Nitrogen Service Adapters, Ground Power Unit Cables, Connectors and Plugs, Lavatory & Potable Water Hoses and Couplers, Air Start Unit & PCA Hoses, and many more parts to support your equipment fleet.

To learn more about AERO Specialties, go to Aerospecialties.com