Just as a subject for discussion, .... how often do you guys think a starter or generator/alternator should be removed for inspection/bearings/brushes? Too many think they should be run until they fail
500-600 hours/cycles or 5-years is good and mid-TBO (900 hrs*) should be considered mandatory, just so you know. Do it when you do your mag inspections. (500 hrs.)
*Remember, these engines original TBO was 1200 hrs and the accessories did not recieve life-extensions just because the engines did. Mid-life was originally 600 hours for the accessories, and that was the time for removal, cleaning, inspecting, bearings/brushes, etc. Much of this kind of work you can do yourself (under supervision for many.) The individual parts such as gaskets, seals, bushings, bearings, brushes, etc. are available from various vendors such as El Reno 800-521-0333, Spruce 877-477-7823, or others. Although aviation-quality units, they're really just good-old-fashioned basic devices similar to the auto and tractor units like you, your father, or grandfather commonly repaired on the garage workbench and in the field. Check out a book from the 1940's or 1950's at the local library on starter/generator, dc-motor repairs. It's not difficult, and it's rewarding and fun.
- click to ENLARGE
- Angle-Adaptor version (O-300-D, etc.)
