0-320 with 160HP upgrade?

drmax · #1 07-23-2012, 06:56 PM

Hello. I've recently ran onto a 6 with an o-320 e2d that was upgraded with larger pistons and now 160HP. Just curious as what this does to the existing parts within the engine, as in, how well do they handle the additional torques and stresses? I'm green with this, as to why I ask. Last thing I want, is to buy someone elses problems. Since major, the eng has 1150 and it's turning a m/t comp. fixed prop. Thx for any info/advice. DM

Sid Lambert · #2 07-23-2012, 07:17 PM

Lycoming makes pretty much the exact 160 hp 320 still. The TBO is still 2000.

jrs14855 · #3 07-23-2012, 07:18 PM

The E series had plain steel cylinders vs Nitride on factory 160 hp. The certified upgrades to 160 hp require either Nitride, chrome or nickel cylinders. Lots of 160 upgrades on EAB with plain steel cylinders. The front main bearing configuration doesn't matter unless you are planning to change to a constant speed prop. Mosty of the E series have 0 235 front main which will not support a constant speed. A few have the two piece front main which will support the constant speed if the engine is set up to accomodate a governor.

drmax · #4 07-23-2012, 07:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jrs14855

The E series had plain steel cylinders vs Nitride on factory 160 hp. The certified upgrades to 160 hp require either Nitride, chrome or nickel cylinders. Lots of 160 upgrades on EAB with plain steel cylinders. The front main bearing configuration doesn't matter unless you are planning to change to a constant speed prop. Mosty of the E series have 0 235 front main which will not support a constant speed. A few have the two piece front main which will support the constant speed if the engine is set up to accomodate a governor.

So it sound pretty much a normal procedure, providing a worthy shop did the repair and all is documented. I think the compressions are all at mid 70's and not using much oil. It is regulary run. I think the secret to longevity is "run the **** outta them"

Mel · #5 07-23-2012, 08:42 PM

Going to 160 hp is accomplished by installing 8.5:1 pistons.
I installed 9.5:1 pistons in my E3D. I have over 800 hrs since overhaul and it still runs great. I've had absolutely no problems.
The E3D is basically the same engine as the E2D except that some E2Ds didn't have the fuel pump.

NickAir · #6 07-24-2012, 03:17 AM

Changing to higher comp 160hp pistons is the standard and usually done on a rebuild of most O-320 150 hp engines.

The Negitive of higher comp pistons (9.5:1/10.5:1) is that you then will be limited from using Mogas. You will need to use 100LL avgas.

The positive: The 160 hp configuration will actually run more efficiently. do it.

gasman · #7 07-24-2012, 04:26 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NickAir

Changing to higher comp 160 hp pistons is the standard and usually done on a rebuild of most O-320 150 hp engines.

The negitive is that you then will be limited from using Mogas. You will need to use 100LL avgas.

The positive: The 160 hp configuration will actually run more efficiently. do it.

I have found this to be not true.

Kyle Boatright · #8 07-24-2012, 04:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gasman

I have found this to be not true.

Agree. Several of the RV's at my home field with 8.5:1 compression engines (0-320's and 0-360's) use mogas.

NickAir · #9 07-24-2012, 11:57 AM

I have been advised by professionals, the following:

High comp pistons in a O-320/O-360 (9.5:1 or 10:5:1) not recommended for low octane Mogas.

(8.5:1 is ok for Mogas) I did this for years and still do with good results.

WAM120RV · #10 07-24-2012, 01:14 PM

Have done this with mine...... make sure it has the thick walled gudgeon pins (wrist pins).