The single housed mag, dual pack mag, the problematic mag… call it what you want. The design sounded like a good idea at the time because of the less complexity, less weight, less production cost, and allowance for more accessories to fit on the engine. However, after the single housed mag was put into service many problems in the field surfaced. These issues include, but are not limited to, cams loosening, impulse couplings failing, magneto movement, and ultimate failure of the magneto housing resulting in the magneto departing the engine. All these failure modes result in either a drastic reduction of power or complete failure of the engine. There is even the potential that internal engine damage was created by operating at an out of specification ignition timing, a problem you may not find out about until much later. The cost is also significantly higher for the single housed magnetos, presumably due to the liability surrounding the design. If you have the O-320-H2AD or O-540 with the single housed magneto design and it has not been an issue for you YET, it’s only a matter of time. Air Plains has an engine replacement solution for this problematic mag on the Cessna R182 and the Cessna 172N. For more information on engine upgrades contact Air Plains today. Phone: 1-800-752-8481 Email: Sales@airplains.com

WELLINGTON, KS (June 17, 2020) – Air Plains Services, a world leader in general aviation engine and avionics upgrades, salutes the iconic Cessna 172 Skyhawk, celebrating 65 years since its first flight, and still going strong. According to Textron Aviation, Cessna has produced more than 45,000 aircraft under the 172 umbrella – the most produced aircraft model in aviation history. Air Plains has provided 180hp engine upgrades to more than 2,500 of those aircraft, with more engine upgrades being installed or shipped worldwide regularly. Air Plains also manufactures a variety of PMA parts for the Skyhawk including baffle kits, airboxes and airbox brackets and gaskets, and propeller bulkheads. The Cessna 172 is also the world’s most famous primary trainer aircraft, used by flight schools around the world. The upgraded 180hp engines sold by Air Plains improve the aircraft’s suitability in flight school or training environments. Installation cost of a new 180hp is comparable to the cost of a scheduled overhaul, and the upgrade offers more reliable performance, more efficient operation, and increased payload to make it a true four-place aircraft, all making the total cost of ownership preferable to other options. For more information about any of Air Plains products or services, call 1-800-752-8481 or +1-620-326-8904, or visit www.airplains.com. For online shopping, visit the Air Plains web store at https://shopairplains.com

This installation instruction was written with the intent to help the installer position the throttle body assembly in its correct configuration. Following the instructions carefully will facilitate the rigging of the controls and assure that the throttle body is in the correct position. 1. Installation Tools The two tools shown below are used to place the throttle body into the correct position. The wood spacer tool 182TB01-TOOL is used to position the throttle body with the proper distance from the oil sump. Tool 182TB02-TOOL aids the installation of the engine controls and positioning of the induction air box. 2. Oil Sump Spacer Place the wood spacer (182TB01-TOOL) between the oil sump and the throttle body. Loosen the clamps on both ends of the intake elbows to place the throttle body into the correct position. Twist the elbows to break the bond between the elbow and the intake hose. This will allow the throttle body to float into position. 3. Position Place part number 182TB02-TOOL over the engine studs as shown in the picture. Removal of the nuts is not necessary. With the spacer 182TB01-TOOL in place between the oil sump and the throttle body and 182TB02-TOOL in position fasten the intake clamps as needed. 4. Support Straps Once the induction air box has been installed and the support straps bolted to the oil sump recheck the throttle body location and adjust as needed. 5. Mixture and Throttle Control Cables With the throttle body in the correct position the engine controls will clear the intake tube approximately ¼ inch during the rigging process. Prior to securing the engine on the firewall it is strongly recommended that installer completes the throttle and mixture cable rigging. Installer should support the engine with an engine hoist and route the control cables according to the installation instructions making sure that there is an adequate clearance between components. The picture above shows the mixture and throttle in idle cutoff position. If the controls cables contact the throttle body at any position it will result in increased wear of components. 6. Balance Tube Remove the clamp on the balance tube and secure with cable ties. Clearance between the balance tube and the intake duct is minimal. If the balance tube interferes with the cowl move the tube up, towards the oil sump. Light taps with a rubber mallet is the best way to move the balance tube into the desired position. Still have a question on the induction installation? Please contact our technical support at tech@airplains.com

WELLINGTON, KS (July 23, 2020) – Air Plains Services, a world leader in general aviation engine and avionics upgrades, announced today the addition of Alpha Systems AOA products as an authorized dealer, offering the company’s full line of stand-alone angle of attack systems for a variety general aviation aircraft, including most Cessna piston models. “We have been very impressed with the performance and reliability of the kits from Alpha Systems AOA and we’re very happy to add them to our growing lineup of avionics and aircraft systems,” said Eric Papon, Air Plains avionics service manager. “They are affordable, easy to install, extremely versatile, and they add an extra level of safety that is always welcomed in a modern cockpit.” Alphas Systems AOA currently produces four models that feature a variety of cockpit displays including a glare-shield mounted head-up display, perfect for when visibility is critical and panel space is limited. Some also feature audio feedback and optional dual displays. In the past year, Air Plains has also added Dynon, Guardian and BendixKing (including TruTrak) avionics to its array of avionics suppliers including Avidyne, Genesys, Appareo, L3 and Aspen, giving Air Plains customers a wider array of options to meet almost any requirement. Alpha Systems AOA, a division of DepotStar, Inc., has been in the forefront of angle of attack technology for General Aviation since 1996. Based in Ramsey, MN, it designs and manufactures AOA display solutions for certified and experimental, pressurized and non-pressurized airplanes. This privately-held firm is owned by a pilot whose mission is to improve aircraft operation and flight safety. For more information about any of Air Plains products or services, call 1-800-752-8481 or +1-620-326-8904, or visit www.airplains.com. For online shopping, visit the Air Plains web store at https://shopairplains.com

WELLINGTON, KS (April 29, 2021) – Air Plains Services, a world leader in general aviation engine and avionics upgrades, announced today it plans to exhibit at both AOPA Aviator Showcase events later this year. The events, scheduled for August 27 in Manassas. Virginia, and October 1 in Fort Worth, Texas, will feature aircraft sales displays, technology-related seminars, and a large exhibit hall with product displays. AOPA has worked to ensure the events align with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “We are so excited to be getting back to face-to-face interaction with our customers,” said Katie Church, head of marketing at Air Plains. “We’ve been very lucky to have kept a steady workload the past year, but we really miss being around our fellow aviators at events like this. “We’ve added new products over the past year and we’re eager to show off our expanding product line to new and current customers alike,” Church said. The most popular new product is the Lycoming drop-in electronic ignition system for the Air Plains 180hp engine upgrade for Cessna 172s. The Lycoming EIS has no mechanical parts that wear and features all solid-state electronics providing a 2,400-hour operating service time and a more consistent spark with no inspections, no rebuilds, no overhauls. Air Plains also recently added an STC for the new Hartzell Trailblazer propeller for its 300hp engine upgrade operators. The swept-tip, scimitar-shaped airfoil is designed for optimal take-off acceleration and climb performance and is designed and constructed to perform well in demanding backcountry operations. The Trailblazer is approved for use with wheels, floats, and skis. The company also added Alpha Systems AOA stand-alone angle of attack systems to its line of avionics that includes Dynon, Guardian, and BendixKing (including TruTrak), Avidyne, Genesys, Appareo, L3, and Aspen products. For more information about any of Air Plains products or services, call 1-800-752-8481 or +1-620-326-8904, visit www.airplains.com. For online shopping, visit the Air Plains web store at https://shopairplains.com

The instructions below will cover the proper way to install our airbox and support bracket in your Air Plains 172-180HP engine upgrade. 1. Apply silicone seal Apply a very thin bead of silicone to the airbox surface where it will make contact to the adaptor plate. 2. Attach airbox Use provided bolt for the left rear attachment. Do no tighten all the air box fasteners. They should be loose until all components are together. 3. Fasten the machine screws. Do not tighten! 4. Alternator bracket Attach Alternator bracket to the engine. Forward bolt will be used to attach the support bracket to the airbox. 5. Support Bracket Slide support bracket thru cover plate. Note that cover plate must be on forward side of the baffles. 6. Support bracket attachment. Slide support bracket thru cover plate. Note that cover plate must be on forward side of the baffles. 7. Install cover plate Use PK Screws and tinnermans to install the cover plate. 8. Final installation and fitment Once all the hardware is assembled tighten all the fasteners to ensure that the air box is installed without any binding or jamming. If your support bracket is too short it may need an aluminum filler plate between the bracket and the airbox. If the bracket is too long make sure you are using the correct attachment holes in the air box. Our bracket is identical to the factory size and although it should work with minimal modification it may require you to rework the bracket.

Installation, Operation, & Maintenance of Lycoming Electronic Ignition System(EIS) For assisting please reference the latest version of Lycoming Service Instruction 1569. For further assistance contact Air Plains technical support, tech@airplains.com

WELLINGTON, KS (November 22, 2021) – Air Plains Services, a world leader in general aviation engine and avionics upgrades, announced today it has been approved by SureFly as an installation specialist for all SureFly electronic ignition modules. “We are big fans of SureFly electronic ignitions,” said Katie Church, head of customer experience at Air Plains. “Their product line meshes so well with the four- and six-cylinder Lycoming and Continental piston engines we’ve specialized in for 45 years. “SureFly ignition modules, or SIMs, have all solid-state electronics and no moving parts which means reliable performance and zero maintenance over the 2,400-hour life of the unit, and that saves time and money.” SureFly is a FAA certified electronic (solid state) magneto replacement. The SureFly Ignition Module (SIM) replaces one magneto - generally the left or impulse-coupled/starting magneto on most aircraft engines. According to SureFly, its SIM requires no inspections, rebuilds or overhauls usually required with traditional magnetos and delivers a more consistent spark with higher accuracy. “We think electronic ignition is a smart and economical option for 21st century operation of your piston airplane,” Church said. “We are happy to offer the SureFly ignition module to our customers.” For more information about any of Air Plains products or services, call 1-800-752-8481 or +1-620-326-8904 For online shopping, visit the Air Plains web store at https://shopairplains.com

WELLINGTON, KS (June 21, 2022) – Air Plains Services, a world leader in general aviation engine and avionics upgrades, announced today company representatives will return to EAA’s 2022 AirVenture in Oshkosh to meet with aircraft owners interested in the company’s popular Cessna piston engine and avionics upgrades. “Oshkosh is the heart of the general aviation industry, bringing in thousands of owners and enthusiasts from around the world every year,” said Katie Church, president of Air Plains. “We had a great time last summer, both developing new customers and meeting with many current customers, and we’re pumped about returning this year.” Once again, the company will be scheduling appointments with Air Plains experts prior to the show taking place this year July 25 through 31. “We will have representatives there who can meet with you so if you’d like to set up an appointment, please contact us, “Church said. “We’ll also have our 300hp Cessna 180 on site to show other products we offer including custom instrument panels and the Inpulse ADI System.” Appointments can be made ahead of time by calling the company at 1-800-752-8481 (+1-620-326-8904 outside the U.S.), or through email at sales@airplains.com Recent market reports show used aircraft prices rising over the past year, making modifications and upgrades a good value compared to other options. “Not only can you upgrade your aircraft for less money than buying new or even going with a used model, you can also make it fit your specific requirements based on the way you fly,” Church said. “We have eight engine STCs, new propeller STCs, an array of avionics options with custom panels, custom interiors, PMA parts, and expert advice based on your requirements and budget.” Today, Air Plains offers eight engine upgrade STCs, five of which are branded Extreme Performance, or XP upgrades: two STCs for the 180hp XP upgrade for the 172; a 300hp XP upgrade for the Cessna 180; a 300hp XP upgrade for the Cessna 182; a 300hp XP upgrade for the Cessna 182RG; a 260hp upgrade for both the Cessna 182S and T models; and a 260hp upgrade for the Cessna 182RG. Air Plains has also added new avionics products and is an authorized avionics dealer for Dynon, Avidyne, Appareo, L3, Aspen, TruTrak, Guardian, and Genesys Aerosystems. The company also specializes in custom avionics panels giving the cockpit a “like-new” appearance. Air Plains operates a full-service machine shop and has gained Parts Manufacturing Authority (PMA) for a variety of aircraft parts including airboxes, adjustable airbox brackets and airbox gaskets, baffle assemblies, exhaust components, and a variety of miscellaneous parts, many available at the company’s online shop. Air Plains also offers a variety of propeller STCs from top brands including McCauley, Hartzell, Sensenich and MT. For more information about any of Air Plains products or services, call 1-800-752-8481 or +1-620-326-8904, visit www.airplains.com. For online shopping, visit the Air Plains web store at https://shopairplains.com

WELLINGTON, KS (June 26, 2021) – Air Plains Services, a world leader in general aviation engine and avionics upgrades, announced today company representatives flew N182AP – it’s signature upgrade project – to AirVenture 2021. The Cessna 182, owned by Michael McRobert of Kansas City, represents the most extensive upgrade project to date for the company, a complete tip-to-tail refurbishment that included a 300hp engine upgrade. The story of the refurb of the 1976 182Q was featured in a three-part series on Cessna Flyer Magazine in the summer of 2018. “We were thrilled for Mike McRobert to let us feature his airplane this year at Oshkosh,” said Rafael Soldan, Air Plains head engineer who is at the show this year. “We are very proud of this project and eager to have people come by for a look.” N182AP is parked on Row 611 in the general aviation parking area. Air Plains managed the project for McRobert, who did much of the research and planning himself. The airplane now features, in addition to the 300hp XP engine upgrade, Flint Aero tip tanks with new LED lighting, Garmin G500, GTN 750 and a GTN 650, JPI EDM930, Stormscope WX-500, new interior and headliner, new wind screen and new custom paint. General aviation has remained fairly strong over the past year and sales at Air Plains remained steady. Over the past year, the company has added a number of new items to its line of products and upgrades including the new Lycoming EIS for 180hp Cessna 172s, the Hartzell Tailblazer prop for 300hp Cessna operators and new avionics including the Alpha Systems AOA stand-alone angle of attack indicator. The company has also added new PMA parts including an adjustable airbox bracket and airbox gaskets, both added to the company’s new online store. Air Plains also recently announced it will have a formal exhibit later this summer at both AOPA Aviator Showcases scheduled for August 27 in Manassas, Virginia, and October 1 in Fort Worth, Texas. For more information about any of Air Plains products or services, call 1-800-752-8481 or +1-620-326-8904, visit www.airplains.com. For online shopping, visit the Air Plains web store at https://shopairplains.com.

WELLINGTON, KS (August 2, 2021) – It’s back on! The annual (except for last year) Wellington Municipal Airport Open House has been scheduled for September 11, sponsored again by the local Chisholm Trail Chapter #1631 of the Experimental Aviation Association. Wellington Airport Manager Matthew Wiebe said details are still being finalized but preliminary plans include a pancake breakfast fly-in (to try out the new pancake maker), activities for kids including a bounce house (sponsored by airport resident Air Plains Services), Young Eagle introductory flights, helicopter rides, and more. “We’re still pulling together activities and sponsors, but it promises to be another fun day for everyone who visits,” Wiebe said. “We’ll have plenty of aircraft parking as well as parking for cars, and we’ll offer aircraft fuel discounts for pilots who fly in.” The open house has become an annual highlight for the City of Wellington, which is also celebrating its 150th anniversary. The airport (KEGT) recently underwent a runway renovation that also extended Runway 18/36 to 5,200 feet, opening it to larger aircraft that serve the local aerospace manufacturing cluster as well other businesses in the region. The Chisholm Trail EAA chapter will offer free introductory aircraft flights for young people, ages 8 to 17, through EAA’s famed Young Eagles program. Local food vendors will also be on hand. Air Plains Services, a world leader in general aviation engine and avionics upgrades, has been a resident of Wellington airport since the company’s founding by Mike Kelley in 1977. The airport also is home for a number of aerospace component manufacturers that not only serve the aircraft industry in nearby Wichita but companies around the world. First platted in 1871, Wellington grew as stop on the famed Chisholm Trail used to move cattle in the late 19th century from ranches in Texas north to Kansas City. It also became a railroad hub that still operates today. Along with aerospace, Wellington’s economy is based on agriculture and is known as the Wheat Capital of the World. Details for the open house will be announced at the airport’s website so be sure to check back. Wellington Airport (KEGT) is just north of Wellington at 441 N West Road (U.S. 81).

“I knew if I wanted to make it faster and with a better climb rate, I had to upgrade the engine.”

WELLINGTON, KS (May 19, 2020) – Air Plains Services, a world leader in general aviation engine and avionics upgrades, announced today it has gained Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA) from the Federal Aviation Administration for an improve d Cessna 172 airbox support bracket providing a tighter fit and longer service life than the original part. “Our new, adjustable airbox bracket, developed after decades of experience replacing factory brackets, removes a lot of the stress that came from production variability,” said Shane O’Day, an Air Plains engineer. “If you’re replacing a damaged bracket or airbox, we think our new PMA bracket is going to be a great, lower-cost option for extending the life of the part.” The bracket is approved for certain Cessna 172 L and M models as well as for all B through M models upgraded with the Air Plains 180hp Lycoming O-360 engine (STC SA4428SW). Air Plains bracket part number APS0552120-2 replaces either 0552120-2 or 0552120-1 and fits all approved models. O’Day said the common issue with factory brackets is a variation in bracket height – as much as one-quarter inch from bracket to bracket – sometimes resulting in a poor fit of the bracket and airbox to the engine. The poor fit, coupled with common engine vibration, increases stress, and ultimately causes cracks in the assembly components. Air Plains has incorporated two innovative features into its new FAA PMA bracket: The new PMA bracket is adjustable during installation which compensates for any misalignment in height. The Air Plains bracket features a steel upper bracket, improving the strength where it matters most. Air Plains is also developing similar adjustable PMA brackets for other Cessna single-engine piston models. The airbox bracket is available at the Air Plains Services online store, along with a variety of new PMA and like-new airboxes as well as new PMA airbox gaskets, all at competitive prices. For more information about the new PMA bracket (including model eligibility) or any of Air Plains other products or services, call 1-800-752-8481 or +1-620-326-8904, or visit www.airplains.com. For online shopping, visit the Air Plains web store at https://shopairplains.com.

WELLINGTON, KS (November 24, 2021) – Air Plains Services, a world leader in general aviation engine and avionics upgrades, has been notified by Continental Aerospace Technologies of a price increase on IO-520 and IO-550 300hp engines, effective December 15. “We can still get orders in at the current price through December 14 so anyone considering an upgrade next year should call us now so we can start the process and lock in the price,” said Katie Church, head of customer experience at Air Plains. This is the second engine price increase from Continental this year. The two engines sold by Air Plains are 300 horsepower replacements for Cessna 180 and 182 single-engine piston aircraft. While Air Plains does installations at its Wellington facility, most are shipped to customers around the world as complete kits with a propeller and all the parts – sourced directly by Air Plains – needed for a smooth installation by the customer’s mechanic. “We’re going to have some flexibility in the shipping date, so the install doesn’t need to be planned right away,” Church said. “Unfortunately, there is no flexibility in the price increase.” For more information about Continental engine upgrade options or about any of Air Plains products or services, call 1-800-752-8481 or +1-620-326-8904. You can also see more information and technical details for the engines at www.airplains.com.

Alfred Moeckli has taken a number of flights in a Cessna "across the pond" from his home in Switzerland, including a trip in his Cessna 182 to Kansas for his 300hp Air Plains upgrade. Read about his process for the journey.

Flying the Great Northwest, from the beach to the backcountry mountains, Fred Osterhout has a lot of fun in his Cessna 172, upgraded by Air Plains Services.

The Cessna 182 is a great candidate for skydive operators. Oliver Carl of Carl Aero states, "The performance upgrade has proven to be extremely popular among skydive operators, as it drastically reduces operating costs while increasing efficiency at the same time. Typically the stock 182 requires 35-45 minutes per lift while the 182 equipped with Air Plains 300 horsepower can do the job in 15 minutes at only two thirds the cost." If pairing your engine upgrade with other great products such an Electronic Ignition System, STOL Kit, WingX wing extensions, larger tires, skydive or seaplane application, engine port and polish, or tuned exhaust system, please share your list with Air Plains. Air Plains can perform the installation in house or ship complete with the engine upgrade STC kit. Many Cessna 180 and 182s owners pair Air Plains 300hp engine upgrade with float installations and get the most out of the planned downtime. Contact Air Plains for additional information and preferred installation facilities. For more information, visit us at www.airplains.com Call: 800-752-8481 or (outside the U.S.) +1-620-326-8904 Email: sales@airplains.com

Dan Dunlap's son Sam always wanted to fly, so Dan learned, too. Based in beautiful Marfa, Texas, an art and soaring mecca, they both found joy at the controls of aircraft. Sam went on to a career in the USAF flying C-130Js and Dan flies the skies over Marfa in his Cessna 172, upgraded with an Air Plains 180hp Lycoming. It's a pretty cool story featured in CPA Magazine in 2020.

WELLINGTON, KS (July 29, 2020) – Air Plains Services, a world leader in general aviation engine and avionics upgrades, announced today it is offering the newly certified Lycoming Electronic Ignition System for its Lycoming 180 hp engines. The Lycoming EIS is a drop-in replacement for one mag, requires no maintenance through TBO and provides precise starts every time. “The new Lycoming EIS is designed and tested to provide trouble-free operation and installation is not an issue,” said Katie Church, head of Air Plains marketing. “We’re offering it now as a stand-alone replacement of one mag and we’ll be adding it to our future XP kits as a no-cost option which we believe will be the most popular way to go.” The Lycoming EIS, developed with SureFly, has no mechanical parts that wear and features all solid-state electronics providing operators a 2,400-hour operating service time with no inspections, no rebuilds, no overhauls. It promises a more consistent spark with higher accuracy than traditional magnetos and results in a more efficient operation, using less fuel. Air Plains has delivered more than 2,500 172XP upgrades based on the Lycoming 180 hp engine and currently offers two STCs designed to meet almost any requirement. For more information on the Lycoming EIS, call Air Plains at 800-752-8481 or (outside the U.S.) +1-620-326-8904.