View Full Version : PT6 Ignition System
Spoiler Mixer
20th Feb 2001, 23:20
Can anyone confirm if the PT-6 engine is fitted with Glow Plugs as part of the ignition system?
If so, how are these operated etc.
Thanks in advance
jetfueldrinker
21st Feb 2001, 14:20
Only ever worked on a PT6 once in my career, but seem to remember that either one plug was as you describe, a glow plug, or that one plug was continuous ignition. Either way, it was used during turbulance, or during landing to prevent flame put. Hope that this is of some help.
JFD
Jedi Knight
21st Feb 2001, 18:46
From what I can remember the PT6 fitted to the DHC6 had glow plugs,can't remember what model PT6 that is.Most other installations use the discharge igniter.
Spoiler Mixer
21st Feb 2001, 21:53
Thanks Jedi Knight...Were the glow plugs the primary ignition source?
Kanga767
22nd Feb 2001, 05:06
Early model Twin otters with the -20 PT6 had/have glow plugs, the later -27 and all other PT6's have 'proper' ignition
Worked on -27s with both...it's just a mod..glow plugs originally but ignitors were modded in at some stage..either work fine. However only typically got 300/400 hrs out of the glow plugs.
Used to have two spares and a spanner (and the AMM procedure) sealed in a plastic bag in the cockpit...for the pilots to change if they got to a strip and couldn't get a start.
Worked on dash 36 & 65 [B-99, 1900]. Both have dual igniters . I would tiewrap the c/b's when working on ign.!!!!!
Kanga767
26th Feb 2001, 04:46
JD - I've done a little work on the 99 and 1900, not much but. Do you mean dual ignition is like one cracker and one glow plug?? Boy! what a nightmare!!
Kanga767
26th Feb 2001, 04:51
....while we're at it, has anyone ever seen a Fairchild Merlin with PT6's? or is it just a misprint in the manual???
The B-99,1900 has dual "crackers" & i think the Fairchild had Garrett "Grenades" I remember as a young pup doing a compressor wash on a B-1900 i was sitting in the cockpit operating the starter & the inspector would hide under the a/c & snap the metal paper holder on a clipboard. It scared the hell out of me! The starter switch had 3 positions, off, starter only & start ign. Of course I had the s/w in starter only ,but he sure got me!