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 for Lycoming, Continental, Franklin, and Rotax engines.

Product Scope

Products: Aircraft Starters

Products: Starter Adapters

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
• PMA and STC certifications across product lines

Starter Categories

Hartzell Aviation offers Sky-Tec starters across three engine categories, each with multiple model lines engineered to match specific performance, weight, and duty-cycle requirements: 

Lycoming Aircraft Starters Continental Aircraft Starters Other Aircraft Starters

Lycoming Aircraft Starters

Sky-Tec’s Lycoming starter lineup covers the full range of Lycoming-powered general aviation and rotorcraft applications, from the lightweight XLT to the heavy-duty E-Drive. All models feature solenoid actuation and built-in kickback protection, making them a direct upgrade over legacy Bendix-drive starters. Available in 12V and 24V configurations and sold factory-direct through Hartzell Aviation.

Continental Aircraft Starters

Sky-Tec offers a complete range of starters for Continental-powered aircraft, from lightweight direct-drive models to gear-reduced options with push-button start conversion kits. Every model is engineered for high spin speed and low backdrive torque to protect the Continental starter adapter. Available in 12V and 24V configurations and sold factory-direct through Hartzell Aviation.

Other Aircraft Starters

For aircraft powered by Franklin, Rotax, AeroVee, or SMA engines, Sky-Tec offers purpose-built starter solutions engineered to the same standards as the Lycoming and Continental lineup. Applicable models carry FAA-PMA approval and include kickback protection where supported.

Sky-Tec Starter Products: