Timing Magnetos Got Simpler
Posted by Richard Bogert on
Simplify Your Annuals: Why Bogert Aviation’s Magneto P-Lead Test Terminals Are a Game-Changer
I remember all too well having to jury rig a terminal that I could use to time a magneto. It wasn’t the best and I wasted a lot of time. I still have a couple of my insulated terminals that I wedged into place and hoped they held until I could get the timing set. That was long before I had the capability to manufacture. Fortunately, those days are behind me. Now we can offer a simple way for the rest of you.
If you’ve ever spent an afternoon wrestling with aircraft maintenance during an annual or 100-hour inspection, you already know the routine. When it’s time to time your magnetos, disconnecting the factory P-leads and trying to reliably hook up a timing light can range from frustrating to downright fiddly.
Bendix-style magnetos require a secure connection to a timing tester. Because they utilize various types of terminals that differ in length, diameter, and thread pitch—ranging from standard round nuts to hex nuts and special retard points on Shower of Sparks systems—improvising connections with alligator clips can lead to poor contact, inaccurate readings, and damaged hardware.
Fortunately, Bogert Aviation has engineered a brilliant, straightforward solution: the Bogert Aviation Magneto P-Lead Test Terminals.
What Are Bogert P-Lead Test Terminals?
Designed specifically to streamline the magneto timing process, these specialized test terminals screw directly onto the magneto housing just like your standard P-lead nuts.
Instead of fighting to attach test equipment leads to awkward internal components, Bogert’s terminals provide a clean, secure post to connect your timing light using standard ring terminals or alligator clips. Most importantly, they are engineered to maintain proper spring pressure against the internal magneto contact points, ensuring dead-on timing accuracy every single time.
Tailored Options for Every Bendix Magneto
Because no two aircraft setups are identical, Bogert offers specific variations (and a comprehensive master set) to cover the entire spectrum of popular Bendix magnetos:
- Bendix Hex Nut Test Terminals (21M-S20T): Built for early S-20, S-4, and S-6 magnetos featuring 5/8-inch nuts and larger insulators.
- Bendix Round Nut Test Terminals (21M-S200T): Perfect for S-20, S-200, and S-600 series magnetos utilizing 7/16-28 nuts.
- D2000/D3000 Test Terminals (21M-D3000T): Tailored specifically for Bendix Dual Magneto systems.
- Retard Magneto Terminals: Essential for servicing the retard lead on Shower of Sparks ignition setups.
- The Complete Bendix Terminal Set: For shop environments or multi-plane owners, the full kit bundles the hex, round, dual-mag, and retard terminals together so you’re always prepared no matter what rolls into the hangar.
Why Every A&P and Owner-Builder Needs Them in the Hangar
- Time Savings: Cut down the frustration of rigging temporary jumper wires during every inspection cycle.
- Precision Accuracy: Eliminate intermittent connections that cause false timing readings.
- Protect Your Hardware: Prevent damage to delicate factory P-lead studs and internal contact points caused by slipping test clips.
- Built to Last: Manufactured with the high-grade craftsmanship aviation mechanics expect from Bogert Aviation.
Streamline Your Next Inspection
Maintenance is a necessary part of flight, but it doesn't have to be a headache. Equipping your toolbox with the Bogert Aviation Magneto P-Lead Test Terminals turns a tedious chore into a seamless, professional procedure.
Head over to Bogert Aviation to pick up individual adapters or grab the complete Bendix terminal set for your flight bag today!
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- Tags: aircraft, Aircraft Maintenance, aircraft mechanic, aircraftlife, Bendix magnetos, Magneto, magneto timing