Sky-Tec

A Hartzell Engine Tech brand

Sky-Tec starter systems are engineered and manufactured by Hartzell Engine Tech to deliver lightweight, high-torque starting performance across general aviation, rotorcraft, and specialty aircraft applications. Designed as direct replacements for legacy starter configurations, Sky-Tec products provide faster engagement, reduced weight, and long-term durability.

Supported by Hartzell Engine Tech’s in-house engineering, certification, and manufacturing capabilities, Sky-Tec serves both OEM and aftermarket applications with proven, field-tested starter solutions.

Product Scope

Aircraft Starters | Starter Adapters

Starter Platforms

Sky-Tec offers multiple starter configurations designed to support Lycoming, Continental, and specialty engine applications.

Lycoming Applications

HT Series
High-torque starters designed for a wide range of general aviation applications, featuring Kickback Protection System (KPS) for durability and reliability.

HT-H Series
High-torque starters with PMA approval for Robinson helicopter applications, incorporating KPS self-resetting protection.

NL Series
Inline starter design replacing Bendix-drive legacy starters, featuring KPS with field-replaceable shear pin.

XLT Series
Lightweight PMA-certified starters designed as updated replacements for LS models.

PM/LS Series
Original Flyweight™ starter design with external-mounted solenoid options (left or right hand configurations).

E-Drive Series
Heavy-duty starters designed to replace Bendix-drive legacy systems, offering high duty cycle capability and improved engagement performance.

Continental Applications

PowerLite Series
Lightweight direct-drive starters with ball bearing design for reduced friction and heat, and low backdrive torque to protect starter adapters.

PM Series
High-torque direct-drive starters with fast spin performance to reduce kickback risk and improve starting reliability.

Energizer Style
Heavy-duty direct-drive starters with fast spin characteristics and low backdrive torque.

ST Series (ST2, ST5, ST2/S)
Gear-reduced starters providing strong starting torque, with integrated Kickback Protection System (KPS) and STC kit options for push-button start conversions.

Specialty & OEM Applications

AeroVee
12-volt starter developed specifically for AeroVee engine applications.

SMA
24-volt starter designed for SMA SR305 engines.

Franklin
High-torque PMA-certified starters replacing legacy Delco and Prestolite units, featuring KPS protection.

Rotax Applications
High-torque starter solutions for Rotax 912 and 914 series engines, designed for experimental aircraft applications.

Key Technologies

• High-torque, lightweight starter designs
• Kickback Protection System (KPS) with self-resetting functionality
• Direct-drive and gear-reduction configurations
• Low backdrive torque to protect starter adapters
• Broad compatibility across Lycoming, Continental, and specialty engines

Applications

General Aviation | Rotorcraft | Experimental | UAV

Support

Sky-Tec Application Guides
Sky-Tec Technical Support

To learn more about Sky-Tec visit their website here.