A question that faces aircraft owners is whether to choose a factory-rebuilt engine or to go with a licensed independent overhaul repair shop like Signature Engines.

It comes down to a very personal decision, and what is right for one person isn’t always the right decision for another.  In this blog, we will discuss a few of the factors that will help you make an informed decision for your specific needs and expectations.

A great place to start is to talk with other owners who have recently had similar engine work and type done, such as Lycoming or Continental.  Learn from their experiences, both good and bad.  Ask them what they wish they had known before, during and after the process.

A close rapport with the team that works your engine is a deciding factor for many aircraft owners. With the independent overhaul shop, you have the option to talk with the owner and the team that will be doing the work.  So if you are looking for that personal touch and hands on relationship, choosing an independent overhaul repair shop is probably a more suitable choice.

Not all warranties are created equal.  Once you have the work done what is the shops warranty and reputation for performance? Ask for the warranty information in writing, and read it carefully.  Most overhaul repair shop and factory rebuilt engines will come with a warranty which guarantees each engine to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a specified amount of hours or one year from date of sale.  You will want to ask because the amount of hours and/or the time frame may vary.  It is also important to know what happens after the allotted hours or time expires.  Licensed overhaul repair shops such as Signature Engines offers a warranty that is prorated after 300 hours or one year after sale.

Let’s be realistic, no one is perfect…how does the shop or factory handle it when something goes wrong?  Ask them for a specific example.  Do they go above and beyond to rectify the situation?  In many cases if something does go wrong, this is when working with a licensed independent overhaul repair shop will be able to provide outstanding, personalized customer service that the factory just can’t compete with.

Ultimately the decision to choose a factory rebuilt engine or a licensed independent repair shop is based on the individual’s needs.  The key is to take the time to define what is wanted, needed and expected and then to find the shop that can deliver.