My suspicion of what’s causing the problem is that the piston rings are completely worn out.
What are the advantages to a high compression conversion of my aircraft’s engine?
Reader Jeffrey A. Hughes asks our engines expert: What is the advantage to doing a high compression conversion to a Lycoming O-320 (from 150 hp to 160 hp)? I suppose the obvious answer is 10 more horsepower, but my natural inclination, given the name “high compression,” would be improved fuel economy. Are there other advantages?
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.
Should I buy this aircraft that has only 49 hours on it?
I’d suggest you approach buying any aircraft slowly, and ask lots of questions, such as total time, does it have a history of extended periods of activity, and review any and all maintenance records.
Ask Paul: The real concern about not changing your airplane’s oil
A lot of people believe the recommended oil change intervals is something the oil companies push in order to sell more oil. It’s obvious that they’ve never seen the inside of an engine that has had infrequent oil changes and the damage caused by corrosion.
Ask Paul: What is this mystery engine?
It’s best to do your research before buying an airplane with an engine you aren’t familiar with.
Does this low-time aircraft engine really need an overhaul?
Mark’s problem is a good example of a situation that is common in the world today. And with the cost of avgas these days, we’re entering a time where more and more aircraft will be idle for long periods of time — and the results could possibly be even worse than what Mark has seen.
Ask Paul: Can you tell me my engine’s horsepower?
I recently bought a project Stinson Station Wagon 108-3 that is equipped with an O-435 Lycoming engine. Is there a way to determine if the engine is the O-435 190-hp or the O-435 225-hp?
Does my engine need an adjustable air shutter?
Question for Paul McBride, the General Aviation News engines expert: Does anyone make an adjustable air shutter for the Lycoming 360 engine? When I blocked mine off and flew to Florida and back I ran a 200° oil temperature.