Sky-Tec Starter Motors

Authorised Distributor & Stockist | FAA-PMA Certified Aviation Starters

Professional Aviation Starter Motors for Lycoming & Continental Engines

Airpart Supply is an approved distributor and stockist of Sky-Tec starter motors, offering FAA-PMA certified solutions for Lycoming, Continental, and other aviation engines serving operators across the UK and Europe. Sky-Tec starter motors represent the pinnacle of aviation starting technology, delivering lighter weight, higher reliability, and superior performance compared to traditional Bendix-drive starters. All Sky-Tec starters feature solenoid actuation to eliminate the trouble-prone Bendix drive mechanism, providing more consistent starts and reduced maintenance requirements for aircraft operators. The Sky-Tec range includes specialized solutions for Cessna, Piper, and other general aviation aircraft. Each starter is engineered with protection systems including the Kickback Protection System (KPS) to safeguard both the starter and engine components during operation. We stock a comprehensive selection of Sky-Tec starters with immediate availability from our UK (High Wycombe) and Dublin, Ireland facilities, ensuring rapid delivery of engine parts and accessories throughout Europe.

Sky-Tec Lycoming Starters

Experience Sky-Tec's ultimate package - all Sky-Tec Lycoming starters are lighter and solenoid actuated, eliminating the trouble-prone Bendix drive.

Sky-Tec Continental Starters

Discover the superior Sky-Tec solution for your Continental engine. All starters are designed to protect the Continental adapter, where applicable.

Starters for Other Aviation Engines

Explore Sky-Tec's high-quality starters for other aviation engines.

Popular Sky-Tec Starter Models In Stock

Browse our selection of frequently ordered Sky-Tec starters with immediate availability from our UK and Dublin warehouses.

Why Choose Sky-Tec Starters from Airpart Supply?

Elimination of Bendix Drive Problems

• Solenoid Actuation: All Sky-Tec starters use solenoid actuation rather than troublesome Bendix drives. This design eliminates the engagement problems, worn gears, and mechanical failures common with traditional Bendix-drive starters.
• Consistent Engagement: Solenoid design provides positive engagement every time, eliminating the grinding noises and failed starts associated with worn Bendix drives. Critical for reliable starting in all weather conditions.
• Reduced Maintenance: Without Bendix drive components to wear out, Sky-Tec starters require significantly less maintenance. Lower parts replacement costs and reduced downtime for maintenance.
• Extended Service Life: Elimination of Bendix drive mechanism substantially extends starter service life. Many operators report double or triple the service life compared to traditional starters.

Superior Weight Savings

• Lightweight Design: Sky-Tec starters are significantly lighter than legacy starters they replace. Weight savings range from 5-15 pounds depending on model, improving aircraft performance and useful load.
• Aircraft Performance Benefits: Reduced nose weight improves weight and balance for Cessna and Piper aircraft. Enhanced climb performance and fuel efficiency from overall weight reduction.
• Critical for LSA Aircraft: Weight savings essential for Light Sport Aircraft operators staying within weight limits. The LSA model integrates alternator mount for additional system weight reduction.
• Experimental and Homebuilt Benefits: Builders appreciate weight savings for achieving design targets. Popular choice for RV, Glasair, and other experimental aircraft builders.

Kickback Protection System (KPS)

• Engine Protection: KPS protects both starter and engine components from damage during kickback events. Self-resetting design on E-Drive and HT models, field-replaceable shear pin on NL model.
• Starter Adapter Protection: Continental starters specifically designed to protect vulnerable starter adapter from excessive back torque. Low back torque design and proper engagement systems prevent adapter damage.
• Cost Savings: Protection systems prevent expensive engine and starter damage from kickback events. Eliminates costly repairs to ring gears, starter adapters, and internal starter components.
• Safety Enhancement: Reduces risk of starter-related incidents during engine start. Provides peace of mind for pilots and maintenance personnel during starting procedures.

FAA-PMA Certification & Quality

• Parts Manufacturer Approval: All Sky-Tec starters carry FAA-PMA certification ensuring compliance with rigorous aviation standards. Manufactured to exacting specifications with full traceability.
• Installation Eligibility: PMA certification allows installation on certified aircraft without special approvals. Streamlined installation process reduces downtime and paperwork requirements.
• Warranty Support: Comprehensive warranty coverage backed by Sky-Tec's reputation for quality. Factory support and technical assistance available through authorized distributors like Airpart Supply.
• Manufacturing Excellence: Precision manufacturing ensures consistent performance and reliability. Quality control processes exceed industry standards for aviation components.

Direct Replacement for Legacy Starters

• Drop-In Replacement: Most Sky-Tec models designed as direct replacements for original equipment starters. Minimal modification required for installation on most aircraft.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Starters available for virtually all Lycoming and Continental engines used in general aviation. Specialized models for helicopters, LSA, and experimental aircraft.
• Application Support: Detailed application guides help identify correct starter for specific engine and aircraft combinations. Technical support available to ensure proper starter selection.
• Installation Hardware: Complete installation kits available including necessary hardware and components. Reduces installation complexity and ensures all required parts are available.

High-Torque Starting Performance

• Powerful Motors: High-torque motors provide strong, consistent cranking power. Faster engine spin-up improves starting reliability, especially in cold weather or with high-compression engines.
• Gear Reduction Options: Models like ST4 and ST5 use gear reduction for increased torque multiplication. Excellent starting torque even with compact, lightweight motor design.
• Direct Drive Models: PM Series and Energizer Style Continental starters use high-torque direct-drive motors. Fast spin helps prevent kickbacks on Continental engines prone to kickback events.
• Cold Weather Performance: Superior performance in cold weather starting conditions. Reliable starts even with heavy oil and reduced battery capacity in winter operations.

Specialized Solutions for Different Applications

• Helicopter High-Torque: HT model specifically designed for helicopter applications requiring high starting torque. Self-resetting KPS ideal for turbine-style starting requirements.
• LSA Integration: LSA model features integrated mount for Plane-Power alternator. Simplifies installation and reduces overall system weight for Light Sport Aircraft.
• Push-Button Conversion: ST2/S STC kit converts hand-propped Continentals to electric start. Complete package includes starter and necessary components for conversion.
• Experimental Aircraft: Non-certified models available for experimental and amateur-built aircraft. Same high quality and performance at lower cost without PMA certification expenses.

UK & EU Warehouse Availability

Airpart Supply maintains comprehensive inventory of Sky-Tec starters in both UK and Dublin, Ireland facilities:

• Rapid European Delivery: UK facility (High Wycombe) serves UK operators. Dublin facility serves EU customers with no customs delays or Brexit-related paperwork.
• Complete Product Line: Full range of Sky-Tec starters and accessories available for Lycoming and Continental engines.
• Technical Support: Our experienced team provides application assistance, installation support, and troubleshooting guidance for Sky-Tec starter installations.
• Complete Engine Parts: Complement your starter with our comprehensive range of engine parts and accessories.

Ordering Sky-Tec Starters & Application Information

Finding the Correct Starter for Your Aircraft:

If you know the Sky-Tec part number, you can search using the search box at the top of this page. For assistance identifying the correct starter for your specific aircraft and engine combination, we recommend visiting the Sky-Tec application guide. This comprehensive tool helps match your aircraft make, model, and engine type to the appropriate Sky-Tec starter.

Popular Aircraft Applications:

• Cessna Aircraft: 150, 152, 172, 182, 206, 210 - all models with Lycoming or Continental engines
• Piper Aircraft: PA-18 Cub, PA-28 Cherokee/Warrior/Archer, PA-32 Cherokee Six/Saratoga, PA-34 Seneca, PA-46 Malibu
• Beechcraft Aircraft: Bonanza, Baron, Musketeer, Sierra, Sundowner - models with Lycoming or Continental powerplants
• Other Manufacturers: American Champion, Bellanca, Grumman, Maule, Mooney, and experimental aircraft with Lycoming or Continental engines

Installation Considerations:

• Professional Installation: Sky-Tec starter installation should be performed by qualified aviation maintenance technicians. Proper installation ensures optimal performance and prevents damage to starter or engine components.
• Electrical System Check: Verify aircraft electrical system compatibility before installation. Ensure battery capacity, cables, and electrical connections meet starter requirements.
• Engine Inspection: Inspect engine ring gear and starter mounting provisions. Replace worn ring gears and repair mounting issues before installing new starter.
• Installation Hardware: Use proper mounting hardware and torque specifications. Contact us for complete installation kits including necessary spacers, shims, and fasteners.

Starter Maintenance Best Practices:

• Inspection Schedule: Include starter inspection in regular aircraft maintenance. Check mounting security, electrical connections, and visual condition during annual inspections.
• Electrical Connections: Keep all electrical connections clean and tight. Corrosion on terminals reduces current flow and starting performance.
• Starting Procedures: Follow proper engine starting procedures to maximize starter life. Avoid extended cranking periods and allow adequate cooling time between start attempts.
• Battery Maintenance: Maintain battery at full charge for best starting performance. Weak batteries increase starter load and reduce service life.

Complementary Engine Components: Airpart Supply offers complete engine support:

• Lycoming Engines - Factory new and rebuilt engines
• Plane-Power Alternators - High-output alternators compatible with Sky-Tec starters
• Engine Parts & Accessories - Comprehensive engine component inventory
• Electrical & Lighting - Complete electrical system components
• Aircraft Hardware - Installation hardware and fasteners

Technical Support & Assistance: Our team can provide:

• Starter selection assistance for specific aircraft and engine combinations
• Installation guidance and technical specifications
• Troubleshooting support for starting system issues
• Compatibility verification with existing electrical systems
• Bulk ordering for flight schools, maintenance facilities, and fleet operators
• Complete starter system packages including necessary accessories and hardware

Official Sky-Tec Resources:

For more information, please contact us at +353 (0)1 862 2220 (Ireland/EU) or +44 (0)1494 450366 (UK), send us an email enquiry, or visit the Sky-Tec starter website at http://skytec.aero/ for additional technical information and application data.

Professional Aviation Starter Solutions

Contact Airpart Supply for expert advice on Sky-Tec Starters

FAA-PMA Certified - UK & EU Stock - Fast Delivery