Aircraft Reciprocating Engine Lubrication Systems

Aircraft reciprocating engine pressure lubrication systems can be divided into two basic classifications: wet sump and dry sump. The main difference is that the wet sump system stores oil in a reservoir inside the engine. After the oil is circulated through the engine, it is returned to this crankcase-based reservoir. A dry sump engine pumps … Read more

Aircraft Reciprocating Engine Cylinder Removal and Installation

Cylinder Removal Since these instructions are meant to cover all air-cooled engines, they are of a very general nature. The applicable manufacturer’s maintenance manual should be consulted for torque values and special precautions applying to a particular aircraft and engine. However, always practice neatness and cleanliness, and always protect openings so that nuts, washers, tools, … Read more

Aircraft Engine Maintenance and Operation

Proper engine maintenance and correct operating practices are essential for maintaining aircraft safety, reliability, and performance. Aircraft engines operate under demanding conditions involving high temperatures, pressures, and mechanical loads. Regular inspections, maintenance procedures, and operational checks are therefore required to ensure that engines continue to operate efficiently and safely throughout their service life. Reciprocating engines … Read more

Aircraft Turboprop Engine Operation

Turboprop engine operation is quite similar to that of a turbojet engine, except for the added feature of a propeller. The starting procedure and the various operational features are very much alike. The turboprop chiefly requires attention to engine operating limits, the throttle or power lever setting, and the torquemeter pressure gauge. Although torquemeters indicate … Read more

Aircraft Turbine Engine Operation

The engine operating procedures presented here apply generally to turbofan, turboprop, turboshaft, and auxiliary power units (APU). The procedures, pressures, temperatures, and rpm that follow are intended primarily to serve as a guide. It should be understood that they do not have general application. The manufacturer’s operating instructions should be consulted before attempting to start … Read more

Aircraft Turbine Engine Instruments

Engine Pressure Ratio Indicator Engine pressure ratio (EPR) is an indication of the thrust being developed by a turbofan engine and is used to set power for takeoff on many types of aircraft. It is instrumented by total pressure pickups in the engine inlet (Pt2) and in the turbine exhaust (Pt7). The reading is displayed … Read more

Aircraft Turbine Engine Maintenance

Turbine powerplant maintenance procedures vary widely according to the design and construction of the particular engine being serviced. The detailed procedures recommended by the engine manufacturer should be followed when performing inspections or maintenance. Maintenance information presented in this page is not intended to specify the exact manner in which maintenance operations are to be … Read more

Aircraft Reciprocating Engine Cold Cylinder Check

The cold cylinder check determines the operating characteristics of each cylinder of an air-cooled engine. The tendency for any cylinder, or cylinders, to be cold, or to be only slightly warm, indicates lack of combustion or incomplete combustion within the cylinder. This must be corrected if best operation and power conditions are to be obtained. … Read more

Reciprocating Engine Cylinder Compression Tests

The cylinder compression test determines if the valves, piston rings, and pistons are adequately sealing the combustion chamber. If pressure leakage is excessive, the cylinder cannot develop its full power. The purpose of testing cylinder compression is to determine whether cylinder replacement is necessary. The detection and replacement of defective cylinders prevents a complete engine … Read more