Shop Talk: Storage and Inactivity

Wednesday, December 16, 2020

One of the most frequently asked questions we receive concerns storage of our cargo hook equipment, both from the time of initial purchase through installation, to seasonal periods of inactivity. The Component Maintenance Manual (CMM) and/or Owner's Manual for your equipment is always your best resource for product-specific information; however, here are a few general guidelines to assist you with your maintenance program.

Storage Between Time of Purchase and Initial (or Post-Overhaul) Installation

If the cargo hook is stored in its original, factory-sealed bag in a reasonably protected, indoor storage area that is dry and heated, it can be installed and put into immediate service for up to two years from the date of manufacture or the last factory overhaul by simply following the installation instructions provided with your equipment. If the storage period in the factory-sealed packaging extends beyond two years, however, then the cargo hook will need to undergo the Acceptance Test Procedures (ATP) as described in the CMM and/or Owner's Manual prior to installation.

If you don’t have the necessary equipment to perform the ATP, you can always send the hook to the Onboard Systems factory for the ATP. We charge a flat fee for this service, which is detailed in our Repair ­Station Cargo Hook Pricing sheet. For more information, download our booklet, Your Guide to Overhaul Options or click here to visit our ATP Services page.

Storage Between Equipment Uninstall and Reinstallation

If the cargo hook has been installed on an aircraft and is subsequently removed from service, it should be stored in a reasonably protected, indoor storage area that is dry and heated. If stored in this condition for less than six months, it can be reinstalled and put back into service without the need for any additional maintenance services.

If the cargo hook will be stored for a period longer than six months, the following maintenance should be performed prior to storage:

• Thoroughly clean and dry the cargo hook exterior, liberally applying ACF-50 corrosion preventative compound inside and out.
• Seal the cargo hook in a plastic bag with a desiccant, and label the bag with the date of storage.

If stored in this condition for less than two years, it can be reinstalled and put back into service without any need for additional service or inspection. However, if the storage period extends beyond two years, or if the cargo hook has not been prepared for storage as described, then the cargo hook will need to undergo the ATP as described in the CMM and/or Owner's Manual prior to reinstallation.

Please contact us if you have any questions, or refer the to product documentation for your equipment.

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