Q: I have a unknown four-cylinder Lycoming that only has these numbers on the case: 2299-24 and 61863 assem. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Jerry A: Jerry, when you said you had an unknown engine, you weren’t kidding! I had to really dig deep in my old Lycoming files before I found what I was looking […]
Will exhaust system fit narrow and wide deck engines?
Q: Will the exhaust system for a Lycoming O-320 wide deck fit a O-320 narrow deck engine on an experimental? Vern Darley Peachtree City, Georgia A: Vern it sounds like you’re getting ready for a fun project, so hopefully this information will give you a positive start. The answer to your question is YES, the […]
How reliable is my magneto?
Q: I just read an article about the reliability of the mag in my TR182 and would like to know if there are any recent SBs or ADs on it. Royal Adderson A: Any information regarding the Bendix Dual Magneto should be available at any FAA approved repair station where you have you aircraft and engine […]
Should different CHTs be a concern?
Q: I have a Mattituck TMX O-360 in my Glastar. During a longer climb phase, my CHTs differ up to 100°F between Cylinder No. 1 and No. 4. Leveling off and reducing to cruise power (65%) at top of climb, CHTs stabilize all within max 30°F. What could be the reason for this difference (airstream entering […]
Ask Paul: Cylinders and safety
Q: I have come across your name looking for answers to the following: We had to rebuild a Lycoming 0-540-J3C5D with normal wide deck cylinders instead of the thin wide deck cylinders nine years ago and 800 flying hours. This engine just came in for a cam shaft change. Our question is can we continue the rest of the engine’s life […]
What engine is best for my Long-EZ?
As far as which engine is the most reliable high horsepower Lycoming engine for your plane, it’s a little difficult to name just one.
How to get the best technical help for your engine…and beyond
I trust by this time everyone is enjoying the summer weather and getting the opportunity to do as much flying as possible. I thought this might be a good time to focus on a subject that everyone should keep in mind when it comes to seeking technical assistance on their aircraft engine. However, what I’m […]
Is there a gentle way to determine the condition of this engine?
Q: Last year our club bought a PA-25 tow plane. It has a Lycoming O-540 G1A5 260-hp engine. We bought it with 100 hours after overhaul and flew it 95 hours, so total 195 hours after overhaul. Now the annual inspection revealed a massive contamination of the oil filter with shiny non-magnetic particles. Also some soft sealant particles (rubber or silicone) are […]
Is this converted engine reliable?
Q: We recently bored a Lycoming 290-D2 engine to accept 320 cylinders (low compression) with 8.5:1 pistons. The engine has all new bearings and valves, and everything has been magnafluxed, balanced, etc. We retained a very good 290 D2 crankshaft. From experience, would you say it could make a reliable engine? Gilles St Pierre, AVIATION BSL (Canada) A: […]