Q: During a checkout in a Piper Cherokee, (I had only Cessna experience), I asked the CFI why Piper has me check the mags at 2,000 rpm and Cessna at 1,700 rpm on what is, essentially, the same engine? My opinion is that it is not a deal breaker to not have exactly the rpm […]
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Will my engine benefit from new technology?
Q: The O233 LSA engine uses the new E-mag electronic ignition that they say advances the timing to 38° BTDC, much like other systems. Does this much spark advance also have Lycoming’s blessing for the O320 and O360? I realize that the spark advance is rpm and manifold pressure controlled. LYLE FORSGREN, via e-mail A: […]
What is the procedure for a hot engine start?
Q: I have a Grumman Yankee Model AA-1 with a Lycoming O-235L 108-hp engine. What is the procedure for a “hot engine” start? When I shut down the engine, I run it lean at 1,800 rpm for about 10 seconds before I pull the mixture. Then, when the engine is cold, it starts right away. […]
Ask Paul: Narrow deck cylinders, the Twin Comanche and a Lycoming milestone
Geez, it’s really beginning to look like I’m losing it when it comes to misstating things in my columns. The most recent concerned the “Wide Deck” vs “Narrow Deck” cylinder column in my last column. I thought I’d explained the difference between the two and used an example of the Piper Twin Comanche PA-30 as […]
Ask Paul: Wide deck vs. narrow deck engines
The difference between a Narrow Deck (ND) and a Wide Deck (WD) configured engine is easily determined by checking the specific engine serial number.
Which cylinder is where?
Let’s make this simpler by always viewing the engine from the pilot’s seat whenever we discuss the positioning of anything forward of the firewall. On the majority of Lycoming engines, the number 1 cylinder is the right front cylinder when viewed from the pilot’s seat.
Tips to reduce spark plug fouling
Q: In my pilot club meeting last month, a pilot complained of spark plug fouling before takeoff in our Grumman Cheetah with 150-hp Lycoming. I suggested that after starting the engine, and before taxiing, she lean the mixture, keep it lean while taxiing and put on full rich for run-up. However, if there is a […]
A ploy to sell more engines?
Q: While TBO is recommended as 2,000 hours or 12 years, whichever comes first, the brokers trying to sell me a used plane always belittle that second limitation, chalking it up to Lycoming wanting to sell more rebuilds. Can you clear the air on this one? HUTCHINSON PERSONS, via email A: The text of Lycoming […]
Why can’t I find Service Instructions online?
I just checked the Service Instruction list at Lycoming’s website and SI 1294, which you referred to in the Jan. 25 GAN (What do to about a “”slightly”” rough running engine), is not listed. Has it been updated to another number? TOM DINNDORF via email Tom, I’m not certain what list you checked, but I […]