COBRA

‎Universal Engine-Change System

The COBRA Universal Engine-Change System is RH Aero’s OEM-validated alternative to bootstrap beams. A four-pillar, semi-automatic rig lifts and positions any wing-mounted power-plant with three-axis precision, guided by a 9-inch touchscreen that records loads and inclinations for AMM compliance. Independent pillars, automatic preload maintaining and emergency-lowering functions protect the pylon and the team, while interchangeable adapters let one COBRA handle everything from a PW1500G on an A220 to a GE90 on a 777. Operators report up to 70 % time saving versus bootstrap methods.

Keyfeatures

Primary and Secondary pillar concept: Independent, cable-linked pillars provide ±120 mm longitudinal, ±150 mm transverse and 10° pitch movement with 5 mm/s or 10 mm/s lift speeds.

Touchscreen control: New PLC/mobile panel upgrade adds step-by-step sequential guidance for infrequent users while power users retain the classic interface.

Built-in safety & data: Overload sensors, emergency-lower, optional load-cell kit and USB data logging for audit trails.

Universal adapters: Quick-change beams link to all common engine cradles; dedicated sets for GE90, Trent 1000, LEAP, PW1100G and PW1500G.

Facelift packages: Nine retro-fit kits (e.g., 9-inch panel, load-beam scale, strain-relief inclinometer, cabinet reinforcement) update any unit built before July 2017.

Highlights

Up to 70 % faster than bootstrap: 1 h 55 m for an A320/CFM56 change; 5 h 30 m for a 777/GE90.

Adopted by 45 operators with more than 115 systems in service worldwide.

2025 upgrade raises capacity to 18 t for lifts up to 1.5 m using redundant length and pressure sensors plus a safety PLC.

Application Cases

Fleet coverage – A220, A320 ceo/neo, A330 ceo/neo, A340, A350, A380, B737 NG/MAX, 747/757/767, 777/777X, 787 and comparable variants.

On-wing engine R&I in hangar

Data-logged lease returns or warranty events where verified load histories are mandatory.

Training support – RH Aero’s Biberach test centre offers full mock-ups for operator certification.

Configuration Options

Configuration

Pillar Composition

Stroke per Pillar

Primary Aircraft Coverage

Long / Ultrashort

2 long + 2 ultrashort pillar

2 800 mm / 1 700 mm

Mixed fleets—single-aisle (A320, 737) and most wide-bodies (A330, 777, 787)

Long / Long

4 long pillars

2 800 mm / 2 800 mm

High-wing-clearance wide-bodies such as 777, A350, A380

Ultrashort / Ultrashort

4 ultrashort pillars

1 700 mm / 1 700 mm

Low-stance single-aisles and regional jets—A220, A320-family, 737 NG/MAX

Facelift pillar-mod kits allow operators to convert a Long/Long set to Long/Ultrashort when additional single-aisle capability is needed.

Why RH Aero?

COBRA combines HYDRO mechanical engineering with RH Aero’s global service footprint. Operators receive an OEM-validated system, retrofit upgrade kits that keep legacy units current, and worldwide spare-parts, trailer logistics and training support—delivering faster, safer and fully documented engine changes across mixed fleets.