The short answer is that, under most conditions, the shelf life of avgas is about one year. If you are a commercial operator, this is the end of the discussion.
Visser's Voice
Can I use 100LL in my homebuilt’s auto engine?
Today’s question comes from a Mr. R. Burger of South Africa. He has a V-8 auto engine in what, I assume, is a homebuilt aircraft. He was wondering if he can use 100LL in his plane without any negative effects on tanks and other fuel system components, spark plug life, engine timing and oil selection. […]
The #2 diesel fuel debate continues
Many times I am surprised by the feedback I get from these columns. Most is positive and greatly appreciated. Many times I am surprised by the feedback I get from these columns. Most is positive and greatly appreciated. The little negative feedback I get also is appreciated. It is mostly constructive in that it points […]
Sometimes it’s the small things that make a big difference
One of the highlights of the aviation year is EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh. The week-long gathering is great for many reasons, but mostly I enjoy seeing old friends and finding out what is new in the technical end of the business. One of the highlights of the aviation year is EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh. The […]
What’s the best way to start a cold engine?
What’s the best way to start a cold engine? I’ve recently received several questions about this, with some asking about pre-oiling, hand propping or even squirting a small amount of oil into each cylinder before cranking. What’s the best way to start a cold engine? I’ve recently received several questions about this, with some asking […]
Are there synthetic oils available for aircraft engines?
Today’s question comes from Verd Erickson, who asked “”Are there any synthetic oils available for aircraft engines?”” His letter was actually sent to Paul McBride, GAN’s engines expert, but ended up with me. Today’s question comes from Verd Erickson, who asked “”Are there any synthetic oils available for aircraft engines?”” His letter was actually sent […]
Make your engine last longer with additives! Increase your mileage 50%!
I’ve received a number of comments concerning the use of additives in the fuel or oil of aircraft. They range from “”I’ve seen #2 diesel fuel gel at cold temperatures even with an additive”” to “”I’ve added such and such an additive to my oil and now I get over 50% better mileage and my […]
What’s the best way to prevent rust during storage?
Judging by the number of questions I receive in the mail and at air shows, the No. 1 lubricant related question is: “”What is the best thing to do to prevent rust and corrosion during prolonged storage or during very low usage times?”” Judging by the number of questions I receive in the mail and […]
Cetane ain’t octane
Dr. Jason Gislason from ConocoPhillips points out that one of the problems with aircraft diesel engines using Jet A is that there is not a minimum cetane rating in the ASTM D-1655 specification (the spec for all Jet A sold in the U.S.). Dr. Jason Gislason from ConocoPhillips points out that one of the problems […]