Ultralight Aircraft Parts
Just like any mode of transportation, at some point your ultralight aircraft is going to need some maintenance or repairs. Although a lot of people tend to be procrastinators when it comes to servicing their automobiles, only the most foolish of aviators would do so with their aircraft. Let’s face it, a stalled car sending you to the side of the road kicking yourself for missing that last tune-up is nothing compared to a mid-flight stall that puts an abrupt end to you flying the friendly skies.
There are a number of ultralight aircraft parts suppliers. You can be most assured of having the correct part designed specifically for your plane if you go to the manufacturer of your aircraft or one of their authorized dealers. These dealers will also carry ultralight aircraft parts that are add-ons and upgrades to what came standard on your aircraft. Here are a few upgrades to consider that may improve your flying experience or enhance its safety:
- Replacement Seat - an upgrade that is wider than the standard seat supplied yet is constructed to be lighter
- Cabin Heater
- Shock Absorbing Nose Gear
- Aluminum Instrument Panel
- Aluminum Engine Area Bulkheads
- Hinged Front Windscreen
- Cargo Pods
- Harness Kits
- Seat Covers
- Decals and Labels
- Ultralight Floats
- Emergency Locator Transmitter
The variety of upgrades available on the market will depend on the type of aircraft. Some upgrades cost relatively little while others can be more expensive.
There are also some companies that deal strictly in salvaged and refurbished parts. This option will be more affordable from a financial standpoint but caution must be taken to be sure the quality and workmanship are satisfactory and that the company is reputable with an untarnished safety record. The critical nature of the specific part will often dictate whether you can safely consider a salvaged or refurbished part rather than a factory produced new one. Even if you do not get parts from these companies, you may be able to sell them your damaged parts so they can refurbish them and resell them to someone else.
Ultralight aircraft parts suppliers are also used by the DIY person that endeavors to build their ultralight aircraft from scratch. Working off a set of plans means that each individual part must be located somewhere and purchased. In many cases, the engine may be purchased from one supplier, the brakes and clutch systems elsewhere and yet another supplier for the radiator, fuel tank and propellers. Accessories such as helmets, headsets, radios and floats can also be obtained from suppliers. Ultralight aircraft parts can even be found on eBay including overhaul kits for the Rotax 503 engine and you can sometimes even find ultralight aircraft plans to get you started!
Another thing to consider when obtaining parts is the shipping cost. While shipping costs will be reasonable for small and lightweight parts, heavier items such as replacement engines can be very expensive to ship and you will benefit from trying to locate one locally. Or here’s a thought, as long as your plane is safe to fly, go pick it up!