Had to choose between a band file and a die grinder for one of those tight engine jobs

I was working on a Pratt & Whitney PT6 last month and had to get into a tight spot near the turbine section. Decided to go with the band file because I figured it'd be safer and give me more control. Took a bit longer but I didn't gouge anything, which is a win in my book. Anyone else pick the hand tool over the power tool on a job like that?

3 comments

3 Comments

miles_robinson209d agoMost Upvoted

Gouging a PT6 is a pretty expensive way to learn a lesson, dude.

hannah_wells8d ago

That "expensive way to learn a lesson" line hits different when you realize most PT6 gouging comes from people skipping the simple stuff like checking for FOD before start. Everyone talks about hot starts or overspeeds but nobody mentions how a loose washer from a previous repair can turn into a $50k lesson real fast. But hey, at least the shops that fix these things love the steady work from guys who don't sweep their floors.

holly7098d ago

Gotta disagree a little bit here. Sure, FOD checks matter but I've seen way more gouged compressors from people rushing through power changes or ignoring vibration warnings. Loose parts are a problem but they usually get caught during a borescope if you're doing your inspections right. The expensive lessons I've seen come from guys pushing the engine past its limits trying to save time. It's not always about skipping the simple stuff, sometimes it's about ignoring the bigger signs.