Our engines expert tells the tale of how a rumor led to Lycoming powering the famous Goodyear Airships.
Lycoming Engines
FAA investigating Lycoming IO-360 shutdowns
An airworthiness concern sheet was published after multiple reports were received indicating uncommanded engine shutdowns on aircraft with IO-360 engines using AVStar manufactured vertical and horizontal mounted fuel servos when the throttle was brought back toward idle.
Ask Paul: Is this crazing normal?
Those little “cracks” are actually channels for the oil to travel through as it lubricates the cylinder walls.
Ask Paul: A picture tells the story
Question for Paul McBride, the General Aviation News Lycoming engines expert: I have a 1960 Piper Comanche. Can you identify the casting number on top of the engine?
Ask Paul: Is this engine a ticking time bomb?
Question for Paul McBride, the General Aviation News engines expert: Checking with you about CHTs on Cylinders 5 and 6 reaching 445° on climb and cooling to about 400° after power reduction in cruise. This is in our PA-24 260B.
Tips to pickle an engine off the wing
What is the best way to preserve or “pickle” aircraft engines that are off the wing waiting for an airframe restoration or for a kit-built aircraft to be completed?
Been there, done that
The engine you choose will definitely impact the design of the cowling, engine baffling, etc., which is why your best source of engine choice and installation will be from “someone who has been there and done that.”
Ask Paul: Is it OK to fly my Mooney lean of peak?
Question for Paul McBride, the General Aviation News engines expert: What is your professional opinion about flying a Mooney 20J with a Lycoming IO-360 engine lean of peak if the temperatures are within guideline perimeters?”
Expert tips on extending the life of your airplane’s engine
I have been working in the General Aviation fuels and lubricant area for about 45 years, and for the last four decades one of the most frequent questions I get is “what are the biggest problems in these areas?” The answer for both is the same.









