So, you get to fix a PT6…

Tips and tools to show up fools

What Is It and How Do You Fix It?

Alright, let’s talk about the PT6. If you work around general or charter aviation, you’re going to see this engine—a lot. The Pt6 and all its variants power everything from small turboprops to helicopters, and when it breaks (which it will), you’ll fix it. But don’t freak out.

Engines can be intimidating, especially when you’re new. The PT6 is no exception. But with the right tools, performing line maintenance doesn’t have to be a pain. I’ve spent hundreds of hours working on these engines, and here’s my go-to list of tools to make your life easier and keep your lead happy.

The Tools That Make the PT6 Your Friend, Not Your Enemy 

1. 1/4” Drive Sockets & Extensions

• Specifically, a 12-point long socket with the bevel ground away.

• Keeps you from rounding out case bolts and wasting time.

• Use wobble extensions. They will let you reach tight spots without mangling your hands and wanting to cry. These extensions were recommended to me by a very seasoned engine guy. I’ve strictly used them ever since.

2. Swivel Sockets

• A ¼ drive 5/16 12-point swivel socket will be your best friend. Normally $25-$35

• Because engineers love torturing mechanics, they hide bolts in the most ridiculous places like the engine frame or under the AGB. 

3. Electric Ratchet

• Stop hand-wrenching all 50 bolts on the air plenum by hand. Get an electric ratchet and save your wrists.

4. Lights—You’re Not Batman, Don’t Work Blind 

• Magnetic Light – Even in a well-lit hangar, engine bays are dark caves. Get a good light with a strong magnet. (Place it on the engine mount which is made of steel.)

• Headlamp – Your hands are full, so let your big, beautiful forehead do the lighting. Get a lamp with a rechargeable battery and a comfortable head strap.

5. Extendable Magnet & Inspection Mirror

• You will drop something. Be ready to fish it out without dismantling half the engine bay. Be prepared to look for it for the whole shift. Use a bendable magnet and a large circular mirror to fins and then grab your lost hardware.

• Check the lowest point in the engine bay first. 90% of the time, what you dropped will be there.

Pro Tip: Avoid the Pain Points

The PT6 plenum is an absolute pain to reinstall, the engine mounts are a monster to safety and the accessory gearbox components will make you wish you worked for the airlines, so save yourself the struggle—use long extensions and the right tools to work around airframe and engine components that are 100% going to be in your way.

Upgrade Your Tools & Your Hangar Cred

Having the right tools doesn’t just make your job easier—it makes you look like you actually know what you’re doing. Want to be the mechanic that gets called in for the tough jobs? Work smarter, not harder. Check out the Product Recommendations section in the newsletter and gear up like a real mechanic.