Engine Slings

An engine sling is used to safely lift and support a Pratt & Whitney engine during removal, installation, or repositioning. It attaches at designated mounting points or lifting eyes, allowing technicians to move the engine without placing stress on sensitive components. Proper use of an engine sling ensures the engine remains aligned and secure throughout the operation.

OEM-approved slings are designed to match the structural and lifting requirements specified by Pratt & Whitney. They ensure that lift points, load distribution, and material strength meet manufacturer safety and warranty standards. Using non-approved slings risks misalignment, damage to engine housings or accessories, and may void warranty or regulatory compliance.

A quality engine sling should include strong, rated lifting hardware, reinforced straps or chains, secure attachment points, and well-defined lifting capacity markings. It should allow stable movement, have components resistant to wear and corrosion, and ensure the engine remains balanced during lifting. Safety latches or locking mechanisms on attachment points help prevent accidental release.

You should select a sling with a rated lifting capacity exceeding the fully configured weight of the engine (including accessories and mounting hardware). For the exact weight, refer to the engine’s specification sheet or maintenance manual. Using a sling with too little capacity risks failure or damage; overspecifying adds cost and weight but increases the margin of safety.

Most engine slings are not one-size-fits-all – they are tailored for specific engine types or series. Variations in engine size, configuration, accessory layout, and lifting points mean slings must match exactly. Some slings offer adjustable load strap lengths or interchangeable attachment points, but verifying fit for your specific Pratt & Whitney model is essential.

Before each use, inspect slings for signs of wear, fraying, corrosion, bent or cracked hardware, loose fittings, or damage to load-bearing straps or chains. Check that lifting eyes or hooks are not deformed and that locking mechanisms work properly. Also, verify the rated capacity tag or marking is still legible.

Maintain engine slings by cleaning them after exposure to dirt, grease, or engine fluids and applying corrosion protection where needed. Store them in dry, sheltered areas to avoid rust or degradation of straps. Keep the sling well-oiled (for chains or hardware) and replace any component that fails inspection.

Using a properly matched and well-designed engine sling improves safety and efficiency by reducing the time required for rigging, balancing, and securing the engine. A good sling ensures predictable lifts, reducing the number of adjustments needed. This contributes to lower aircraft downtime and better workflow scheduling.

Common styles include strap slings, chain or link-type slings, and frame-style hoist slings with lifting eyes. Some engine slings are full-cradle designs that support more engine contact points. Kell-Strom OEM slings are built to suit the specific lifting points and configuration of Pratt & Whitney engine models.

Yes. If the sling is positioned incorrectly – for example, attaching to non-load-bearing hardware or improperly balancing the engine – it can cause undue stress, distortion, or damage to engine cases or accessory mounts. Overloading the sling exceeds its rated capacity and can lead to hardware failures. Strict adherence to OEM instructions and safe lifting practices is essential.

They are used in MRO hangars, airline maintenance shops, field service depots, and during aircraft disassembly/assembly operations. Anytime an engine must be removed, installed, or moved for mechanical work, an engine sling is essential for proper handling and safety.

Yes. Using Kell-Strom OEM-approved slings engineered specifically for Pratt & Whitney models helps satisfy engine manufacturer requirements, which is often a part of retaining warranty coverage. It also supports compliance with aviation regulatory standards regarding the safe handling and tooling of powerplants.

When not in use, slings should be stored in a clean, dry location away from UV, chemicals, or moisture to avoid degradation. Keep the straps, chains, and hardware suspended or laid flat to prevent kinks or distortions. Tag and document inspections so records are available when needed.