Aircraft Jack Proof Load Testing Downtime

While many MRO’s and FBO’s are familiar with shipping items for calibration, it can be a struggle to plan work around how long a piece of equipment will be gone. In the case of aircraft jack proof load testing, it can be difficult to get by when jacks are gone for service. Which begs the question, what is the average time it will take, from start to finish, to get equipment back after testing?

Shipped Aircraft Jack Turn-around Time

Shipping alone constitutes the majority of the time you are without your equipment. Average freight shipment time is 5 – 7 days one way for an aircraft jack, resulting in a 10 – 14 day round trip journey. Best case scenario, the calibration lab that performs the aircraft jack proof load test can begin testing within 1 – 3 days of receipt. The majority of MRO’s and FBO’s find themselves without a jack for about 3 weeks.

Variables

Axle jacks are easier to ship than tripod jacks. Axle jacks have greater shipping options due to decreased size and weight. Where do your jacks fall in the queue? Depending on other orders, a calibration technician may start working on your axle jack or tripod jack from day of receipt to 3 weeks later. Certain times of year are busier than others, check with your calibration provider to pick a less busy time to schedule aircraft jack proof load testing. If an aircraft jack requires repair, additional time is added before return shipping. Waiting on the parts alone can take upwards of 1 – 2 weeks.

On-site Proof Load Testing

If the turn-around time for aircraft jacks is too long, you may want to consider on-site proof load testing. The proof load test takes about 30 minutes to perform per jack. Some adjustments and repairs can be made during on-site service. If larger repairs are required, the aircraft jack can be sent back with the calibration technician.

If you have any questions about aircraft jack proof load testing, contact e2b calibration.