p.mulwitz(at)worldnet.att
Guest
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 Posted: Fri Jul 07, 2006 4:29 am Post subject: Engine Failures. |
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Frank,
I agree with you.
Sometimes when I get bored I read accident reports on the NTSB web
site. I usually limit my choice of accidents to home built aircraft,
but in discussions with experienced pilots I have been led to believe
that the phenomenon of engine failure is certainly not limited to
home built planes.
My informal conclusions agree completely with your comments about
fuel systems and crank shaft failures - particularly the fuel
systems. I don't think crank failures are as frequent as fuel system
failures, but they get lots of press because of ADs and other
publicity. There are endless examples of fuel system failures which
seem to include clogged filters and fuel starvation from other
causes. I suppose the most popular reason for fuel starvation is the
pilot flew farther than the fuel allowed, but that is probably the
most prevalent form of engine failure.
On the crank failure issue, I am reminded of a lesson from my
favorite flight instructor. He taught me that nearly all mechanical
failures in engines occur when the pilot makes changes to the engine
controls. I believe it is good practice to leave the engine controls
alone while close to the ground, and to make gentle smooth movements
on the controls. This may or may not save me from unpleasant forced
landings, but I have been lucky so far. Another surprise for me was
the fact that new engines are more likely to experience catastrophic
failures than older engines. Older engines may burn a lot of oil but
they are generally smooth in operation.
Paul
XL fuselage
do not archive
| Quote: | It is easier to reduce the risk of an engine failure by addressing
the fuel system and crank than it is to reduce the risk by focuing
on the ignition system. I would suggest that the bigger issue is
crankshaft failure, and the relalted issue of correctly matching the
propellor to the engine.
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