I have an IO-540 fitted to my -10 and have been having some minor issues first flight of the day.
Everything was fine until I was away from home for about 6 weeks so decided to install desiccator plugs. The problem started after I refitted the normal plugs although I have difficulty believing it has anything to do with that - just coincidence.
On the first flight, the engine starts fine but then starts to stumble. I don't believe it is an ignition fault as it dies and then recovers if I give it a bit of throttle. It's almost like a vapor lock but can't be. Putting the electric pump on makes no difference. There is no evidence of any water in the system. I also do not believe it is the traditional "Morning Sickness" of a sticky valve - the engine is only 25 hours old and it is definitely like a weak cut rather than a misfire. By the time I have done the engine run-up all is well. Second flight of the day, no problem.
The first time it happened, I put it down to the engine having sat there fore 6 weeks but it occurred again the next day, although not as bad. I haven't flown since as I am away and the engine is again inhibited. I am hoping to fly again in the next few days, so any ideas?
In summary:
- doesn't feel like an ignition problem
- doesn't feel like a sticky valve
- can't be the EDP as the electric pump ON makes no difference
- can't be vapor lock as the engine is cold
That leaves water. The drains are clear but I suppose it could be collecting somewhere else. The aircraft is kept in an unheated hangar so could it be condensation in the fuel? This is the first winter the aircraft has been finished and flying.
More than irritating as the engine had been running absolutely sweetly! Any thoughts appreciated.
Everything was fine until I was away from home for about 6 weeks so decided to install desiccator plugs. The problem started after I refitted the normal plugs although I have difficulty believing it has anything to do with that - just coincidence.
On the first flight, the engine starts fine but then starts to stumble. I don't believe it is an ignition fault as it dies and then recovers if I give it a bit of throttle. It's almost like a vapor lock but can't be. Putting the electric pump on makes no difference. There is no evidence of any water in the system. I also do not believe it is the traditional "Morning Sickness" of a sticky valve - the engine is only 25 hours old and it is definitely like a weak cut rather than a misfire. By the time I have done the engine run-up all is well. Second flight of the day, no problem.
The first time it happened, I put it down to the engine having sat there fore 6 weeks but it occurred again the next day, although not as bad. I haven't flown since as I am away and the engine is again inhibited. I am hoping to fly again in the next few days, so any ideas?
In summary:
- doesn't feel like an ignition problem
- doesn't feel like a sticky valve
- can't be the EDP as the electric pump ON makes no difference
- can't be vapor lock as the engine is cold
That leaves water. The drains are clear but I suppose it could be collecting somewhere else. The aircraft is kept in an unheated hangar so could it be condensation in the fuel? This is the first winter the aircraft has been finished and flying.
More than irritating as the engine had been running absolutely sweetly! Any thoughts appreciated.