A note that came in the mail from a Flyer reader included a suggestion that went something like this, “How about an article dealing more extensively with the cold-start problem?” This suggestion was a good one as it provided an opportunity to share information about a variety of cold-weather considerations to help get the engine started and to keep it operating during cold-weather conditions...

The fatal crash of a light twin in which a flight instructor and an applicant for a multiengine rating were killed prompted the NTSB to issue an urgent warning to all pilots simulating an engine-out condition on multiengine airplanes. The Board’s investigation revealed that some flight instructors do use the fuel selector or the mixture control to shut down an engine to test a multiengine...

An important part of the engine-starting procedure is the priming technique. Of course, the Pilot’s Operating Handbook will specify the steps in starting a specific model engine. However, some of the pilot handbooks may not explain why certain procedures are used in the starting process. Priming can be best accomplished with an engine priming system, as opposed to use of the throttle. The primer...

Sudden cooling is detrimental to the good health of the piston aircraft engine. Lycoming Service Instruction 1094D recommends a maximum temperature change of 50˚ F per minute to avoid shock cooling of the cylinders. Operations that tend to induce rapid engine cooldown are often associated with a fast letdown and return to the field after dropping parachutists or a glider tow. There are occasions...

Knowledge gained from the experience of others is usually the easy way to learn. In the case of sticking valves that may damage an engine or cause it to fail, it is surely best if the knowledge is not acquired firsthand. The experience of others is related in the following paragraphs. One of the regional service managers here at the Lycoming factory indicated that his experience over the years...

Considering that the properly timed sequence of valve opening and closing is essential to efficient and reliable engine operation. Anytime those valves stick for any reason, it is a serious problem. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to provide our readers with some insight into this problem along with methods to help avoid it. The space between the continuously moving valve stem and its...

These are some of the more common questions asked at our service hanger: QUESTION: Do your new, rebuilt or overhauled engines require a break-in period that consists of cruise at low-power settings? ANSWER: Definitely not. Fly them as you would a high-time engine. In fact, so-called “slow” flying may have harmful effects. The rings may not seat properly resulting in higher than normal oil...

Airline deregulation has caused changes. Many aircraft powered by Lycoming reciprocating engines are being used in the commuter market. These aircraft operate under Part 135 of the Federal Air Regulations and generally have a regular schedule which must be maintained day after day. The engines of these aircraft, like those operated for individual or corporate transportation, are expected to reach...