Hartzell Propeller expands aircraft preheat offerings

Hartzell Propeller has expanded its preheating capabilities to offer a complete suite of engine preheat options to general aviation consumers. The entire preheat product line contributes to aircraft longevity, safety, and ability to fly in colder weather.

Our Tanis Aircraft Products brand utilizes heated bolts and silicone pads to provide engine preheat. Our newly acquired Reiff Preheat Systems brand utilizes heated coils and aluminum pads to heat engine cylinders and oil sumps.

Both product lines are available across a wide variety of 4 and 6-cylinder Lycoming, Continental and Rotax engines, while Tanis preheat systems are also available for helicopter and turboprop applications. The distinct brand designs from Tanis and Reiff now provide customers with the ability to choose the heating element technology and installation method that they prefer.

The benefits of aircraft preheat include:

- Reduced engine wear during cold starts, resulting in increased engine life

- Reduced chance of frosting spark plugs, making engine starts easier

- Reduced run-up time during cold weather operations, saving fuel

- Reduced cylinder scoring

- Promotion of proper oil flow

- Increased safety

- Compliance with engine manufacturer manuals that mandate preheating

Guidance on when to preheat:

- Refer to aircraft and engine manufacturer instructions and guidance for cold weather operation

- When temperatures are forecasted to drop below 40 degrees Fahrenheit

- When frosted spark plugs are suspected based on diminished engine firing strength or multiple failed starts

- When operating turbine aircraft, helicopters and diesel engines to reduce the likelihood of torque oscillation