A Cirrus is a different machine than a Cessna 172. It has a composite airframe, a side-stick, a glass panel and a parachute for the whole airplane. Its annual follows the inspection program in Cirrus's own maintenance manual.
Brooks has worked on Cirrus aircraft since 2005. Here's what goes into an annual on an SR20, SR22 or SR22T.
The engine
Which engine you have depends on the model and generation. SR20s built before the G6 use a Continental IO-360, and G6 and later SR20s use a Lycoming IO-390. The SR22 has a Continental IO-550, and the SR22T has the turbocharged Continental TSIO-550. Brooks works on both Continental and Lycoming engines.
At annual, the engine gets:
- A compression check on every cylinder
- A borescope look inside the cylinders
- An oil change, with a filter cut open and checked for metal
- A check of the magnetos, ignition leads and spark plugs
- An inspection of the exhaust, and the turbochargers on an SR22T
The airframe
Composite doesn't corrode like aluminum, but it still needs a careful look for cracks, impact damage and delamination. The inspection also covers the flight controls, landing gear, brakes and tires.
CAPS, the parachute system
The Cirrus Airframe Parachute System runs on a 10-year cycle. The parachute gets repacked and the rocket motor replaced every 10 years. At each annual, the system is inspected per the maintenance manual, and your mechanic should note when the next 10-year service is due.
Plan for that service early. It's a big bill, and the plane is out of service while it's done.
Avionics
The glass panel needs its own attention, from database updates to the wiring behind the screens. Brooks does avionics work and consulting, so he can help when something on the panel acts up or when you're weighing an upgrade.
Do you need a factory service center?
No. Any A&P mechanic with Inspection Authorization can perform and sign off a Cirrus annual by following the maintenance manual. If your plane is new enough to still be under factory warranty, read the warranty terms before you choose a shop.
How to keep the bill down
- Fly the plane regularly. Engines that sit tend to corrode inside.
- Keep a running list of squawks and hand it over at drop-off.
- Keep your logbooks and records organized.
- Ask for the list of findings before any extra work starts.
Every annual Brooks does is test flown before the plane goes back to you. For typical costs, see what an annual costs.