Q: I have a Grumman Yankee Model AA-1 with a Lycoming O-235L 108-hp engine. What is the procedure for a “hot engine” start? When I shut down the engine, I run it lean at 1,800 rpm for about 10 seconds before I pull the mixture. Then, when the engine is cold, it starts right away. […]
Ask Paul: Narrow deck cylinders, the Twin Comanche and a Lycoming milestone
Geez, it’s really beginning to look like I’m losing it when it comes to misstating things in my columns. The most recent concerned the “Wide Deck” vs “Narrow Deck” cylinder column in my last column. I thought I’d explained the difference between the two and used an example of the Piper Twin Comanche PA-30 as […]
Ask Paul: Wide deck vs. narrow deck engines
The difference between a Narrow Deck (ND) and a Wide Deck (WD) configured engine is easily determined by checking the specific engine serial number.
Which cylinder is where?
Let’s make this simpler by always viewing the engine from the pilot’s seat whenever we discuss the positioning of anything forward of the firewall. On the majority of Lycoming engines, the number 1 cylinder is the right front cylinder when viewed from the pilot’s seat.
Tips to reduce spark plug fouling
Q: In my pilot club meeting last month, a pilot complained of spark plug fouling before takeoff in our Grumman Cheetah with 150-hp Lycoming. I suggested that after starting the engine, and before taxiing, she lean the mixture, keep it lean while taxiing and put on full rich for run-up. However, if there is a […]
A ploy to sell more engines?
Q: While TBO is recommended as 2,000 hours or 12 years, whichever comes first, the brokers trying to sell me a used plane always belittle that second limitation, chalking it up to Lycoming wanting to sell more rebuilds. Can you clear the air on this one? HUTCHINSON PERSONS, via email A: The text of Lycoming […]
Ask Paul: Tips to help you save money
The bad news: There really isn’t much you can do to run an engine much more frugally than you do during the normal course of operation. The good news: There are a few things you can do to keep operating costs down. I’ve always been a big believer in operating the engine at best power […]
Why can’t I find Service Instructions online?
I just checked the Service Instruction list at Lycoming’s website and SI 1294, which you referred to in the Jan. 25 GAN (What do to about a “”slightly”” rough running engine), is not listed. Has it been updated to another number? TOM DINNDORF via email Tom, I’m not certain what list you checked, but I […]
Engine exhaust creates unsafe condition for Colt owner
My Piper Colt has a strong odor of engine exhaust in the cockpit. The mechanic says he is sure the muffler is good, and turning off the heater does not change the amount of odor. Looking at the floor board, directly below the seats, I can see a lot of daylight. There’s an upholstery cover […]