Replacing cracked MFD glass on a Dynon SkyView glass cockpit requires careful handling and adherence to manufacturer guidelines. The process involves safely removing the old unit, disassembling the display, replacing the cracked glass with a new one, and then reassembling and reinstalling the unit. It is critical to consult the Dynon installation and maintenance manuals for specific instructions and to use the correct tools to avoid further damage to the sensitive electronics.
The Dangers of Cracked Glass
A cracked screen on a Dynon SkyView Multi-Function Display (MFD) is more than just an aesthetic issue; it can pose a significant risk to the aircraft’s avionics system. The primary danger is the ingress of moisture or dust, which can short-circuit the sensitive electronics behind the glass. Additionally, the crack itself can interfere with the unit’s touchscreen functionality, leading to dead zones or phantom touches that can be distracting and potentially hazardous during flight. The integrity of the glass is essential for protecting the display and ensuring its reliability.
A Step-by-Step Replacement Process
Replacing the glass on a Dynon SkyView MFD is a delicate procedure that should only be performed by a qualified technician. The process is not a simple “pop-out, pop-in” repair and requires precision and care.
- Unit Removal: The first step is to safely remove the MFD from the instrument panel. This involves disconnecting the power and data cables and unscrewing the mounting brackets. It is critical to handle the unit with care to avoid damage to the connectors or the bezel.
- Disassembly: Once the unit is on a workbench, the technician will carefully disassemble the MFD to access the display assembly. This involves removing the screws from the casing and detaching the internal components. Care must be taken not to damage the ribbon cables or connectors.
- Glass Replacement: The cracked glass is typically a separate component from the LCD screen. The technician will use specialized tools to separate the cracked glass from the display. This is the most delicate part of the process, as the underlying LCD is fragile. The new glass is then carefully installed, ensuring it is properly aligned and sealed to prevent future moisture or dust ingress.
- Reassembly and Installation: After the new glass is in place, the MFD is reassembled, reconnected, and reinstalled in the aircraft. The final step is to perform a functional test, including a touchscreen calibration, to ensure the repair was successful and the unit is operating correctly.
The Aero Center’s Commitment to Avionics Repair
At The Aero Center, we have extensive experience working with Dynon SkyView systems. Our technicians are trained to perform these intricate repairs, ensuring that every step is taken with the utmost care and precision. We recognize the importance of having a fully functional and reliable avionics system, and our commitment to quality is what sets us apart.
As the only 24/7 maintenance center in the California, Arizona, and Nevada region, we understand that aircraft downtime is a significant inconvenience. We pride ourselves on providing prompt, professional service that gets you back in the air safely and efficiently. Our reputation is built on a foundation of trust and a consistent record of successfully resolving complex avionics issues.
Footnotes:
- https://www.dynonavionics.com/docs/support.html
- https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/phak/media/19_phak_ch17.pdf
- https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2012/october/1/avionics-g1000-updates
- https://www.lycoming.com/sites/default/files/SI1384B.pdf
The Aero Center is located at William J. Fox Airfield KWJF | Lancaster, CA. Contact us at 209.885.6950 for questions or appointments.