The Lycoming IO-540-AB1A5 has a rating of 230 hp at 2400 rpm. Can I just change the governor and increase the RPM to 2700 (like the D4A5) to get 260 hp or do more technical modifications need to be done?
Ask Paul
After replacing almost everything in my engine, why is there metal in my oil filter?
My advice to all who have or will experience metal contamination in an engine: Replace the oil cooler and hoses rather than taking a chance.
I’ve replaced the problem cylinders, should I replace the others?
Given the engine times and now having #2 and #4 pistons and rings replaced and valves rebuilt, I’m leaning heavily toward performing the same maintenance on #1 and #3, with new pistons and rings, even though they aren’t suspected of any issue, but wanted to seek your wisdom on this first.
Ask Paul: Is it a bad engine or bad maintenance?
A flying club’s maintenance officer wants to upgrade one of the club’s airplane engines, claiming the engine is known for having “lots of reliability issues.” Another member of the club turned to our expert to get his advice on what’s really going on with the engine.
Is our airplane’s EGT harmful to the exhaust valves?
Is an EGT in the 1510 range harmful to the exhaust valves in our 1978 Piper Lance II?
When is the best time to take an oil sample from my aircraft engine?
I usually take my oil analysis samples when the engine is cold. The logic is that all the oil has drained, and the volume removed should be a bit better. Should I be doing something differently?
What is causing that popping noise in my engine?
Question for Paul McBride, General Aviation News’ engines expert: I’ve noticed that if I reduce the throttle quickly I get a popping noise from the exhaust for a few seconds that then quits. A slow reduction in power to idle doesn’t cause it.
Why are the spark plugs on my Cessna 152’s engine filled with oil?
My suspicion of what’s causing the problem is that the piston rings are completely worn out.
A master class in how to winterize your airplane
There has always been controversy about how to best prepare general aviation aircraft engines for long-term storage, but from my viewpoint, you’ve covered all the bases and then some.