Question for Paul McBride, the General Aviation News engines expert: I own a Piper Cherokee 6. Is it possible to upgrade this engine with a turbocharger?
Opinion
The future can surprise us
Fifty years of technological advancement will result in a world you and I won’t recognize. Our children and grandchildren will believe that relocating to Mars is a viable option. They’ll ride in autonomous cars to a place where an autonomous aircraft will transport them to the launch facility — a scenario we could easily disregard as being ridiculous.
Looking for a propeller
A Hollywood stunt pilot and Reno air racer is on the hunt for a racing propeller for “Little Mike,” a midget racer owned by Mike Dewey.
Customer service is a verb
Finding success isn’t all that complicated, especially in a service-oriented industry. It’s not easy, but the path to success isn’t well hidden. It’s right out in plain sight. Start with a smile and a willingness to help. Run with that. Profits will follow.
Pitcairn Mailwing earned its aura
Pitcairn Aircraft hit the sweet spot for its airmail and sport biplanes with the Mailwing series from 1927 to 1931.
Ask Paul: How can I determine which pistons are in my engine?
Question for Paul McBride, the General Aviation News engines expert: I have acquired a Lycoming O-290 in an experimental. The data plate has been removed. Is there anyway with a borescope to look in and see what pistons I have to know if it’s a D or a D2?
Red light, green light, white light
You can request unique training opportunities from ATC. Things like light gun signals. If you’re a CFI you should expose your students in a controlled environment. If you’re an experienced pilot on your flight review, ask for something challenging. It might just make your life a whole lot more comfortable later on…when you least expect it.
How can I ensure an FBO’s fuel is not contaminated?
I recommend that you let your plane sit for maybe a half hour or so after fueling before you do your fuel sump checks. That way if you did get some moisture or contaminates, you would have a better chance of spotting it.
Can my engine really be converted with just a simple adjustment?
I am building a Velocity and it happens that I purchased a zero time rebuilt 250-hp Lycoming IO-540-C4B5 engine. I have been told by a maintenance shop that the only difference between a C4B5 and a D4B5 is the setting of the fuel servo. The D4B5 is rated at 260 horsepower, and they claim they can adjust the servo to convert the C4B5 into a D4B5.