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Imagine your meticulously maintained aircraft—your trusted companion that carries your dreams aloft—suddenly grounded due to a critical lubricant shortage. This scenario, reminiscent of an explorer losing their compass mid-journey, has become an unfortunate reality for many aviators facing supply chain disruptions. However, practical solutions exist to keep your aircraft airworthy.

Understanding the Current Lubricant Landscape

Global supply chain challenges have significantly impacted the aviation sector, particularly affecting the availability of AeroShell lubricants, long considered the gold standard in aircraft maintenance. As these products become increasingly scarce, alternatives from Mobil and NYCO have emerged as viable solutions, offering comparable performance and reliability.

Mobil lubricants, produced by ExxonMobil, bring decades of aerospace experience and rigorous testing standards. Meanwhile, NYCO has gained notable recognition, with Hartzell Propeller now recommending their GN 3058 lubricant for constant-speed propellers—a significant endorsement from an industry leader.

Dispelling Lubrication Myths

A critical mindset shift is recognizing that no single lubricant brand is irreplaceable. Manufacturers often recommend commonly available products, but numerous alternatives meet exacting specifications. The key lies in understanding which components require specific lubricants and where substitutions are permissible without compromising safety.

Component-Specific Alternatives

Wheel Bearings: Flexible Options

While AeroShell 5 or 6 are traditional choices for wheel bearings, NYCO GN 05 and GN 15 serve as excellent substitutes. For synthetic options, AeroShell 22 or its NYCO counterpart GN 22 offer superior temperature tolerance. Mobil 28 presents another synthetic alternative, though availability and cost may vary.

Manufacturer specifications remain paramount. Matco, for instance, approves multiple lubricants for their wheel bearings, including those meeting MIL-G-81322 standards. Special note: amphibious float systems require specific BG Products 605 lubricant.

Tailwheel Maintenance

Annual lubrication (or every 100 flight hours) ensures proper tailwheel function. Key steps include:

• Cleaning grease fittings thoroughly before application
• Using protective caps when possible
• Applying lubricant gradually to avoid seal displacement
• Following manufacturer-recommended products precisely

Constant-Speed Propellers: The NYCO Solution

Hartzell's revised maintenance protocols now specify NYCO GN 3058, with important considerations:

• Annual servicing (or every 100 flight hours for high-use aircraft)
• Strict 1-ounce maximum grease quantity
• No mixing with previous AeroShell applications
• Complete conversion only during overhaul

Selecting the Right Lubricant

• High-temperature operations: AeroShell 5/22 or equivalents
• Cold-weather conditions: AeroShell 7/22/33 alternatives
• Humid environments: AeroShell 5/22 substitutes
• Helicopter applications: Micro wear-resistant options like AeroShell 14

Essential Maintenance Principles

1. Manufacturer Compliance: Always use approved lubricants specified in component manuals.
2. Proper Procedures: Follow prescribed application methods precisely.
3. No Mixing: Never combine mineral and synthetic lubricants without thorough component cleaning.

Conclusion

Supply chain challenges need not compromise flight safety. By understanding lubricant alternatives, adhering to manufacturer guidelines, and implementing proper maintenance practices, aircraft operators can navigate current shortages effectively. The key lies in informed adaptation—combining technical knowledge with practical solutions to keep aircraft safely airborne.