How to learn more about engines

[LettersFromFlyoverCountry]

The thread on the loss of compression and the posts about pulling the jugs and checking clearances and tolerances was yet another reminder about a reality for me: I don't know **** about engines.

I don't know how to pull a cylinder. I don't know WHEN to pull a cylinder. I don't know what to do about a stuck valve even if I had one, which I don't.

I'm wondering if there is some reasonably efficient way of learning these things with, perhaps, some hands-on practice that might tell me what tools I need and help me understand what the builder/owner is capable of when it comes to servicing an engine in a given situation?

[Kent Ashton]

Try the "Sky Ranch Engine Manual" (used to be Sky Ranch Engineering Manual) by John Schwanner
http://www.amazon.com/Sky-Ranch-engi.../dp/B0006EXXJ0

[Ironflight]

Originally Posted by LettersFromFlyoverCountry

I'm wondering if there is some reasonably efficient way of learning these things with, perhaps, some hands-on practice that might tell me what tools I need and help me understand what the builder/owner is capable of when it comes to servicing an engine in a given situation?

Lycoming has an engine school that lasts a couple of days that folks have said is very good. Short of finding a knowledgeable friend who is overhauling an engine that will let you help, this is probably the most "efficient" way.

I can think of at least one way that a good writer could make such a school financially efficient as well....

[wirejock]

Does it have to be airplane engine knowledge? I've never worked on an airplane engine but after years of overhauling auto engines, all the comments are understood and I feel with a service manual, I could rebuild one.. I would suggest buying a $500 thrasher and tear it apart then put it back together. Not exactly a Lycoming but much cheaper and you might end up with a fun toy. I'm on my fourth now. First was a VW bug (total restoration), then a Isuzu Pup 4x4, Suzuki Samurai 4x4 and now Chevy Tracker 4x4. The latter is my daily driver now. If your disappointed with the project, haul it to the junk yard.

[jpowell13]

I learned a lot by rebuilding an aircooled boxer BMW motorcycle. A great resource for Lycomings is Lycoming@yahoogroups.com.

John

[jrs14855]

There are videos available for assembly of the 0 320 and 0 360. I believe both were done in the old Mattituck facility.

[rzbill]

Bob,
Being trite about it, I have always learned the most about something after I broke it and had to fix it

[flyboy1963]

I have not dug into a Lyc, nor will I likely do so.
I have rebuilt a number of small-blocks chevy's, enough to know that watching someone, and reading the manual are ok, but what's always missing is 'the magic', or 'art' part of it, that I would certainly want put into any engine I fly behind.
I think most know what I mean; you are mounting manifold 'x' to head 'y', and recall that last time, you had a leak there.....so you need to use more sealant, or double up on the gasket, or use the 'new' version.
...or after 100+ hours, you see potential problem areas, where you 'shoulda' done something different, & 99% of the time, that ain't in no book!

[BobTurner]

Find a good A&P who will let you "help". Expect to pay extra for this service. Nothing beats hands-on training.

[Mike H]

Originally Posted by jpowell13

Mike Busch's articles are usually the first thing I read in Sport Aviation. His article in the recent June issue, Cylinder Work:Be Afraid got my attention and seems pertinent to this discussion. Due to the nature of his business it's usually an A&P that miss-diagnoses a problem or makes a mistake. He also points out the way that over-regulation of certified aircraft maintenance can do more harm than good at times; such as, causing unnecessary cylinder work to be performed. It's good to get as much engine knowledge as you can to keep your A&P honest and to know what maintenance to do when; or, whether it's smart to install high compression pistons for example. Taking a class, or, getting someone with real experience to supervise your engine work is a good thing in my opinion.

I for one am getting wary of reading the mis-information the self proclaimed messiah of aircraft maintenance publishes every month. Please make sure you validate the "advice" you get from these articles before you take the information as the gospel.