Replacing cracked display glass in Cirrus SR20 and SR22 piston aircraft glass cock-pits

Replacing cracked display glass in a Cirrus SR20 or SR22 glass cockpit is a multi-step procedure that requires specialized tools and expertise. The process involves removing the display unit from the panel, carefully separating the cracked glass from the LCD screen, and then installing a new, approved glass overlay. It is a delicate operation that should only be performed by a certified avionics technician to avoid further damage to the sensitive electronics.

The Importance of Professional Repair

A cracked display screen on a Cirrus SR20 or SR22 is more than just a cosmetic issue. It can compromise the integrity of the avionics system in several ways:

  • Moisture and Dust Ingress: The crack provides a pathway for moisture and dust to enter the unit, which can lead to short circuits and permanent damage to the internal components.
  • Touchscreen Malfunction: For systems with touchscreen capability, a crack can create “dead zones” or cause the system to register phantom touches, making the display difficult or impossible to use.
  • Compromised Visibility: The crack itself can distort the display, making critical flight information hard to read, especially in certain lighting conditions.

Attempting to repair this yourself can void the warranty and lead to more costly damage. A professional repair ensures the unit is returned to factory specifications and maintains the aircraft’s airworthiness.

The Replacement Process

The process of replacing the display glass is a precise and methodical one. While the specific steps may vary slightly depending on the avionics system (e.g., Garmin G1000, Perspective, or Perspective+), the general procedure is as follows:

  1. Unit Removal: The first step is to carefully remove the display unit from the instrument panel. This involves disconnecting the power, data, and antenna cables from the rear of the unit. The technician will meticulously label each wire to ensure a correct and safe reinstallation.
  2. Disassembly and Glass Separation: Once the unit is on a workbench, the technician will carefully disassemble the bezel and housing to access the display assembly. They will then use specialized tools to separate the cracked glass from the underlying LCD screen. This is a crucial and delicate step, as the LCD screen is extremely fragile and can be easily damaged.
  3. Installation of New Glass: A new, factory-approved glass overlay is then installed. It is critical that the new glass is properly aligned and sealed to prevent any future moisture or dust ingress. For touchscreen units, a new touch sensor may be integrated into the glass, and its connection to the system must be meticulously re-established.
  4. Reassembly and Functional Test: After the new glass is in place, the unit is reassembled, reinstalled in the aircraft, and all cables are reconnected. The technician will then perform a functional test, including a touchscreen calibration if applicable, and a ground run-up to ensure the system is operating correctly and the repair was successful.

The Aero Center’s Professional Service

At The Aero Center, we are specialists in the maintenance of single-piston aircraft, including the Cirrus SR20 and SR22. Our technicians are factory-trained and have the specialized tools and expertise required to perform these intricate repairs. We have the authority and experience to handle these sensitive avionics systems, giving our customers in California, Arizona, and Nevada the social proof they need to trust us with their aircraft.

We understand that a grounded aircraft is a major inconvenience, which is why we are the only 24/7 maintenance center in the region. Our commitment to consistency and quality ensures that every repair is performed to the highest standards, getting you back in the air safely and efficiently.

Footnotes:

  1. https://www.cirrusaircraft.com/
  2. https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/phak/media/19_phak_ch17.pdf
  3. https://www.garmin.com/en-US/p/64295
  4. https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2021/october/pilot/g3x-touch

The Aero Center is located at William J. Fox Airfield KWJF | Lancaster, CA. Contact us at 209.885.6950 for questions or appointments.

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