With regard to the overall reliability of any engine, it’s simply a matter of operating and maintaining it in accordance with Lycoming’s manuals using the old philosophy — you take care of it and it’ll take care of you!
Ask Paul
Getting an idle aircraft flying again
Q: We have a Piper Navajo PA-31-350 that has not flown in three to four years, but maintenance has been done on it continually. During intervals the engines were started and run up. What are the requirements as to the engines (or the aircraft itself) if it has not flown for three or four years? Are there any Service […]
What’s the difference between an O-320-E2-D and G?
Q: Paul, can you tell me, please, what the difference would be between the Lycoming O-320-E2-D and the O-320-E2-G? David Smith A: Dave, there really isn’t much of a difference between the Lycoming O-320-E2D and the O-320-E2G. According to the Lycoming Certificated Engine listing (SSP-110-1), the O-320-E2G is the same as the O-320-E2D except the […]
What mods can help boost power?
Q: Are there any practical, appropriate and compliant modifications that can be made to a 150-hp, narrow-deck O-320? For example, can the compression ratio be tweaked a bit, or are there aftermarket exhaust systems with less back pressure, or is there any porting/polishing possible to effect a tad more power to the propeller? Gordie A: […]
An unknown engine
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 […]
A mysterious engine at Reno
I had my suspicions about this, but I sought outside counsel from a good friend who has attended Reno for many years. Considered the best spark plug analyst, he shares his tremendous knowledge with the race teams.
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 […]