Designed specifically for 12-volt systems, the 149/122NL delivers exceptional reliability in addition to offering popular Sky-Tec features like the Kickback Protection System.
Montgomery, AL (September 3, 2019) — Representatives of Hartzell Engine Technologies (HET) have announced that the company has reintroduced its lightweight, Sky-Tec starter specifically for 12-volt electrical systems.
“As the number-one lightweight replacement for legacy Bendix-drive style units, our 149/122NL starter has been extremely popular with Lycoming operators for a long time. It was originally approved to work with either 12- or 24-volt systems,” explained Keith Bagley, President, Hartzell Engine Technologies. “But, that flexibility came at a cost – we have learned that when operated in a 24-volt system, the convertible unit does not provide the durability our customers deserve.”
“That my not be an issue for low-cycle 24-volt system users like homebuilders, but it has proven to be a major issue when they are installed in certified aircraft with 24-volt systems,” he said. “Flight schools in particular have reported on-going reliability concerns with convertible starters used in 24-volt systems.”
“We are confident that by realigning the 149/122NL starter specifically for 12-volt systems, it will eliminate those reliability concerns,” Bagley said. “Customers will just have to make sure they are using the correct149-series starter for their application. Failing to do so will void the warranty.”
Bagley stressed that the newly reintroduced Sky-Tec 149/122NL is a dedicated 12-volt starter and the 149.122NL/ec is specified for 24-volt systems.
About the Sky-Tec 149/122NL Light Weight Starter
- FAA PMA certified for non-geared Lycoming piston aircraft engines
- Kickback Protection System (KPS) featuring a field-replaceable shear pin
- Most popular replacement for legacy Bendix-style in-line starters
- Weighs just 9.4 pounds
- All-metal gears and steel ball bearing races
Bagley said that the company has prepared a Service Letter containing guidelines pertaining to the specific installation parameters for the Sky-Tec 149/122NL 12-volt starter. A copy of that Service Letter is available at: https://skytec.aero/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/SL-080_-.pdf
Hartzell Engine Technologies and Sky-Tec logos are available in our Media Room.
Sky-Tec-149/122NL 12-Volt Starter