General Aviation News engine expert Paul McBride tackles a reader’s question about converting a Lycoming O-540-B from 235 horsepower to 250 horsepower.
Why Are My Oil Temperatures So Low?
A reader reaches out to our engines expert about very low oil temperatures in his Van’s RV-8.
From Sewing Machines to Sky Ships: The Lycoming-Zeppelin Connection
Our engines expert tells the tale of how a rumor led to Lycoming powering the famous Goodyear Airships.
How Can I Keep Flying While I Get My Engine Overhauled?
William’s Question: I want to get my engine overhauled. Not because of any operating problems, but because it has been 35 years since overhaul. After contacting overhaul shops I find that due to the work force shortage, overhaul times are now in the six to eight month or more time frame. I don’t want to stop flying to overhaul an engine that the only problem is 35 years since it was last overhauled.
Why is my engine blowing oil?
Question for Paul McBride, the General Aviation News engines expert: My Duke’s right engine has started blowing out oil from the breather.
What’s The Difference Between Narrow Deck And Wide Deck Engines?
Question for Paul McBride, the General Aviation News engine expert: In your recent column, “The fall-out from not doing due diligence,” you mentioned narrow deck and wide deck. My question: “Is a narrow deck an angle valve 540 and a wide deck a parallel valve 540? “
Would our expert add Marvel Mystery Oil to his engine?
Question for Paul McBride, the General Aviation News engines expert: Does adding Marvel Mystery Oil to the fuel and/or engine oil help valves from sticking?
Ask Paul: The fall-out from not doing due diligence
Question for Paul McBride, the General Aviation News engines expert: I purchased a 1971 PA-32 Cherokee 260 about 18 months ago. I did not do my due diligence in a pre-buy and did not consider the effects on an airplane engine with only 300 hours since rebuilt in 2012 that spent a lot of time in a hangar in New Jersey.
Another reader worries his engine is a ticking time bomb
While waiting for a new engine, a reader wonders if he should worry about his existing engine, especially since he flies over open water a lot.