GE to offer on-wing upgrade programme for Challenger 601 engine

The upgraded engines will have longer time on wing and greatly reduced maintenance  costs with no scheduled hot section inspections or overhauls.

"Offered as part of GE Aviation's OnPoint solution agreement, the new on-wing engine upgrade is an improvement to the CF34 modernization program released four years ago and is backed by all the assurances included in our services agreements," said Bill Hoernschemeyer, general manager of Business and General Aviation Sales at GE Aviation. "This new program for CF34-3A2 engines can be accomplished without a shop visit if the engine configuration meets the requirements specified in the bulletin. Converting these scheduled maintenance engines to on-condition will increase the time on wing for the engine, reduce maintenance expenses and improve the aircraft's resale value."

The new on-wing upgrade is available for 36 CF34-3A2 engines that are in service on Challenger 601 aircraft.

The original CF34 modernization program is available for all CF34-1A and -3A and all remaining CF34-3A2 engines. This upgrade must be performed during an overhaul at GE's Strother facility, a GE Branded Service facility, or other GE-authorized shop.

For these CF34 engines, the upgrade involves the replacement of the engine's existing honeycomb shrouds in the high pressure turbine with new advanced steel shrouds and
the addition of a borescope port. The combustor liner will also be replaced with a new more durable, robust liner.

With the upgrade, the engines will be fully on-condition with next unscheduled shop visit typically driven by the cycle limited parts lives.