Blackhawk Modifications reported at AirVenture that its new 325 Amp Starter Generator for the Blackhawk XP42A engine upgrade has been approved by the FAA for Cessna Caravans with the XP42A engine upgrade installed.
The new generator, which replaces the stock 200 amp starter generator for the XP42A engine upgrade, is the same starter generator that Blackhawk has designated as standard equipment for the PT6A-140 engine for Cessna 208 and 208B Caravans.
Key benefits of the new generator include:
- 50% reduction in start time;
- 1,000°C reduction in start temperatures – an improvement that will help reduce hot section and overhaul expenses;
- 325 amps of continuous power for aircraft on a wider range of ground and flight equipment and operations;
- Extended starter overhaul intervals (from 400 actual to 1,500 hours “no touch”).
Blackhawk is offering the upgraded starter generator and installation kit for an introductory price of $28,000 with exchange.
Installation of the improved starter requires less than two days of down time, according to Jim Allmon, Blackhawk Modifications President and CEO.
“Not only will this upgrade help save customers money by getting started faster and with less stress on engines, it will give operators more flexibility by enabling them to power more ground and flight equipment than ever before,” Allmon said. “It may seem like a small upgrade, but profitability can be a challenge – and we’re helping customers every way we can.”