CRJ Systems/SOP question.

[SkyWestCRJPilot]

At SkyWest on the engine start checklist we turn off the packs before starting the engines. Even though the packs shut off automatically at engine start when the pack valves close SkyWest still shuts them off first via the overhead switches. I was told this is to reduce wear on the pack valves. Do any other airlines that fly CRJs shut off the packs in the engine start checklist or do you just leave them on and let them go off automatically. Thanks.

 

[sweptback]

At SkyWest on the engine start checklist we turn off the packs before starting the engines. Even though the packs shut off automatically at engine start when the pack valves close SkyWest still shuts them off first via the overhead switches. I was told this is to reduce wear on the pack valves. Do any other airlines that fly CRJs shut off the packs in the engine start checklist or do you just leave them on and let them go off automatically. Thanks.

ASA shuts them off.

 

[hobbsmeter]

Packs off manually at Comair as well.

 

[EagleRJ]

Not so at Eagle (700), which is surprising since they have us disable most other automatic functions "just in case".

Exception- bottle start. Hooking up an external air bottle when the packs are on will let them run off of the bottle (for a few seconds, at least).

 

[cl-65link]

Yes, we do at Pinnacle, as well. I believe Bombardier recommends it.

 

[skeezer]

At PSA we shut them off manually as well. I too have wondered why we bothered to do that since they shut off on their own, and the only thing I can think of is that it may be protection in case a pack valve fails to close leaving the starter with less than adequate pressure. However that is off the top of my head and not an official answer.

Of course this only applies to the -200 as in the -700 it is all automatic and we leave the packs on.

Peace!

Skeezer

 

[another cfii]

I think it's a matter of "continuity" in the RJ, just like when you transfer bleed, the APU LCV won't open until it senses a source of bleed from the APU, but we still open/close it by the checklist. At least it makes sense to me... my 2 cents.