My 800 hour Since Major Over Haul (SMOH) Lycoming O-540-C4B5 engine won’t hold its RPMs. We’ve done several things to find the problem, but we’re still hunting.
Ask Paul: Finding the correct oil cooler inlet on my airplane’s engine
“I do not understand the the oil routing to allow the thermostatic valve, located in the filter adapter, to control the oil flow to or from the oil cooler, from ports not located on or near the thermostatic by pass valve.”
Five factors to consider before overhauling your engine
There are so many factors that must be taken into consideration when making a decision to overhaul an engine, and each engine must be addressed individually.
Ask Paul: Help with timing
When setting the timing on an Lycoming AEIO-360-A1E engine, do I align the 25° line on the starter ring with the centerline of the engine case and do I align it with the top or bottom of the case?
Ask Paul: A reader tip may solve the problem
A reader’s solution for his engine troubles highlighted in a recent “Tips & tricks from our readers” post may hold the answer for this aviation maintenance pro and the engine problem that’s frustrating him.
Ask Paul: The trouble with troubleshooting
Our engines expert Paul McBride helps troubleshoot a perplexing problem with an engine on an owner-maintained airplane.
Ask Paul: More on removing vacuum pumps
Thanks to a good friend who acts as my “conscience” for my posts, I’ve been advised that I may have mislead those who may be thinking about permanently removing a vacuum pump in a Lycoming engine in a Piper Arrow III.
What are the best options when it’s time for an engine overhaul?
Before you make any decision, make absolutely certain that when you look at the options, be sure to compare apples to apples. Don’t let prices influence your decision, because the least expensive option may not be the best value.
Ask Paul: Is my engine burning too much oil?
My new engine is burning a quart of oil every four to five hours. Some “experts” are telling me I probably have glazed cylinders and others say just keep on flying it hard and the consumption will drop. Should I be concerned?