FAQ or frequently-asked-questions page gives answers to common questions that we are asked and gives other useful information. Click on the question below to see their answers.
YES!!! Current Tanis systems use elements that are compatible with all engine analyzers/monitors. Our standard and STC systems do not use the CHT (Cylinder Head Temperature) thermocouple well. Instead of using the CHT well we use a bolt/screw element that can replace a rocker cover, baffle pad, or intake bolt/screw. See instruction TN02771 for more information. Legacy (Old) systems and kits may still use CHT well elements.
For cold weather operations, engine preheat is always required. Refer to the engine manufacturer’s recommendation and the POH/AFM specific to your aircraft.
“Preheating is required whenever the engine has been exposed to temperatures at or below 20F/-7C (wind chill factor) for 2 hours or more.” Continental Service Information Letter No. SIL 03-1 or the Continental Standard Practice Maintenance Manual M-0.
“The use of preheat will ease startup during cold weather and is required when the engine has been allowed to drop to temps below -10F/-12C” Lycoming Service Instruction No. 1505.
Preheat may be used at any temperature to reduce run-up times and starting wear but Tanis does not recommend preheating when the ambient temperatures exceed 104F/40C.
My friend told me not to install your system because it causes moisture and corrosion. Is this true?
No, this is not true. Resistance heat cannot create moisture. Moisture is always present inside your engine and specifically within your oil. Use of our system will NOT result in corrosion because a Tanis preheat system keeps all of the metal parts that are above the oil level above “dew point” and as a result condensation cannot occur on these parts. Tanis preheat systems are not to be cycled on and off as this could cause the engine to go through “dew point” (timers and thermostats are not to be used).
Tanis preheat systems are designed so you will achieve the maximum benefit from our system within 6 hours of use. Most of our data logging results show a 40 to 50 degree F° increase (22.2 to 27.7 C°)within the first two hours of use.
Refer to engine/aircraft documentation for minimum temperature required for starting. The heating follows a “standard reducing curve” for the temperature rise of the engine.
On a GA aircraft once the cowl is removed, it may take 2-5 man hours for completion per engine. Pad heat elements require curing before the aircraft can return to service.
For helicopter and complete aircraft installs the time is variable based on the status of the aircraft and type of aircraft. Contact us for additional help.
All invoices and packing slips include a Certificate of Conformance printed on the lower left hand side of the document. The copy that is shipped with the order is signed confirming that it has been properly shipped.
By default we include an export 8130-3 with all international orders for the country that is purchasing the kit for eligible items. If you require the 8130-3 for another country of registration other than the one that is installing it please let us know when ordering.
A Tanis preheat kit can be installed by an appropriately rated individual. Installation of any preheat system requires a log book entry at a minimum. An STC system should have the STC paperwork properly filed per the aircraft’s country of registration.
*Purchased separately: Heating element for each battery, power plug [may be included with helicopter/fixed wing kits], Additional cable,
The most current revsion of Documentation for current systems can be found on the individual kit/system’s pages on our website.
Replacement parts and Accessory installation documents can be found on their individual pages on our website.
General install documents including ICA, Pilot guides, and common instructions can be found also on our Technical Data page on our website.
I’m trying to download a document from your website and it wants me to make an account or Login. Can I make an account?
1. You use Create an account link and enter your information. The more information you provide the easier it is for us to approve your request.
2. An email is sent to you to from sales@tanisaircraft.com informing you that your account is active.
We do not recommend or sell a single element to heat the oil sump only. We only sell complete preheat systems. Using a complete multi-point preheat system will “heat soak” the engine as recommended by engine/aircraft manufacturers.
Our system is designed to raise the engine temperature 60±10 degrees F° (33.3±5.5 C°) above ambient.