Three boys look inside the engine of a plane as they learn how to change spark plugs on a Cessna 150 during a January training event.
Youngsters learn how to change engine spark plugs in a Cessna 150 during January training event. Credit: Courtesy photo

The local chapter of the Experimental Aircraft Association, EAA Chapter 491, will host a hands-on aircraft maintenance experience for youngsters interested in developing mechanical and engineering skills, 10 a.m. Saturday, July 15 at Santa Ynez Valley Airport in Hangar J6 (end row of hangars on Airport Road).

A noon lunch will be provided with hot dogs, hamburgers, chips and soft drinks. The work should conclude no later than 3 p.m.

EAA hangar boss Sam Burke will introduce the students to a Cessna 150 that has not flown in several years, and will continue the maintenance process of returning the aircraft to an airworthy condition.

Focusing on maintenance on the wheels and tires, and the main landing gear, teams of students will perform such tasks as changing tires and repacking wheel bearings; checking brake lines and calipers; removing rust from main gear legs; and logging records of the work done in the aircraft logbooks.

The work will be led by EAA members Burke, John Rodkey, Allen Maris, Lloyd Sorenson, and Howard Wallace.

There is no charge for the event, and parents are invited to join in the work. For more information, email EAAChapter491@gmail.com.