Ask Paul

I am having a hard time finding any usefulness in your column. People ask specific questions and you tell them to look it up. As a reader, I would like to see some sort of expert answer to their questions. Like the mag check, what is your opinion (What’s the best way to test a […]

Recent oil analyses seem to be showing increased levels of copper coming from my XP-360. Could you help with a diagnosis? Steve Glasgow-Cappy via email I’ll shoot from the hip on this one because I need more specific information to answer your question, but let’s see what we can do. How about I just throw […]

Can you give me an idea of what STCs are available to convert an O-320-E3D from 150 to 160 hp? David Austin Ponder, Texas David, I suggest you go to the following website to do your research: Airweb.FAA.gov/STC. Once there you’ll be offered several options to locate the information you’re looking for. When looking for […]

I often hear from U.S. mechanics that in their opinion the only way to really test a mag is to do it while flying. They say that’s because you can really get the highest rpm, say 2,550, and then do a left/right check as I normally would do at 1,700 on the ground. I’m not […]

My friend and I were discussing why many Lycoming engines were built without oil filters, just oil screens. He guessed it was because in the beginning they just didn’t have oil filter technology, and once certified, the engine design is hard to change, so they just stayed that way for a long time. My conjecture […]

I have nearly finished assembling a Lycoming O-360 that will be fuel injected. I am trying to find information regarding what kind, if any, sealant I should use and how to apply that sealant should one be used. I am assuming that careful application would be required in this area, specifically the fuel flow divider. […]

I have owned N68338 for 20 years. Our Cessna 310 has taken us as far as Germany and goes often to the Caribbean. Recently it had a major makeover with an Air Mod interior, Dial paint etc., etc. There have been lots of premature engine changes due to cracked cases and cylinder failures near enough […]

Where can I obtain CAD information for Continental and Lycoming engines to use in a preliminary airplane design? In addition to the dimensions of the engines and very specific positions and angles for mounting and accessories, I’d like to have weight, C.G., etc. I’d also like to have some information on rpm ranges and vibration […]

QUESTION: I have a 1979 Cessna 152 II with a Lycoming 110 hp engine. I have a hard time starting it in all weather conditions with any combination of prime, from zero to four primes. Many times it will not start, draining the battery. How can I resolve this problem? Joe Ragon Okeechobee, Fla. ANSWER: […]