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The Lycoming O-360: A Comprehensive Guide

History and Overview

The Lycoming O-360 is a horizontally opposed, air-cooled, four-cylinder aircraft engine manufactured by Lycoming Engines. Introduced in 1955, it has become one of the most widely used aircraft engines in the world, powering a vast array of fixed-wing aircraft.

Specifications and Design

Cylinders: 4, horizontally opposed
Displacement: 360 cubic inches (5.9 liters)
Bore: 4.375 inches (111.1 mm)
Stroke: 3.75 inches (95.2 mm)
Compression Ratio: 8.5:1
Power Output: 145-200 horsepower
Weight: 245-275 pounds

The O-360's design incorporates a forged steel crankshaft, aluminum alloy cylinder heads, and cast iron cylinders. It features a single camshaft located in the crankcase, operating two valves per cylinder. The engine is equipped with a constant-speed propeller governor and a magneto ignition system.

Performance and Efficiency

The O-360 offers excellent performance and fuel efficiency. It produces a maximum continuous power output of 180 horsepower at 2,700 RPM. The engine has a specific fuel consumption of 0.55 pounds per horsepower per hour.

Applications

The Lycoming O-360 has been used in a wide variety of aircraft models, including:

  • Cessna 150/152
  • Piper Cherokee
  • Beechcraft Bonanza
  • Mooney M20
  • Socata TB20

Certification and Safety

The O-360 is certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and meets the FAR 33 safety standards. The engine has an overhaul interval of 2,000 hours.

Maintenance and Repair

The O-360 requires regular maintenance and repair to ensure optimal performance and safety. Common maintenance tasks include:

  • Oil changes
  • Filter replacements
  • Spark plug inspections
  • Valve adjustments

Tips and Tricks

  • Use high-quality aviation oil: Refer to the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific oil type and change intervals.
  • Inspect hoses and lines regularly: Check for leaks, cracks, and chafing to prevent fuel or oil spills.
  • Start the engine smoothly: Avoid over-priming or excessive cranking, which can put stress on the engine components.
  • Avoid exceeding RPM limits: Operating the engine above its recommended RPM range can lead to premature wear and tear.
  • Keep the engine clean: A clean engine is less likely to experience problems and will extend its lifespan.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Improper oil maintenance: Failure to change oil and filters regularly can lead to lubrication problems and engine damage.
  • Ignoring spark plug inspections: Faulty or worn spark plugs can cause ignition problems and engine misfires.
  • Overheating: Operating the engine at high temperatures or under excessive load can lead to overheating and damage.
  • Improper propeller installation: A misaligned or unbalanced propeller can cause vibrations that can damage the engine.
  • Insufficient lubrication: Inadequate lubrication can result in increased friction and wear on engine components.

How to Step-by-Step Approach to Replacing Spark Plugs

  1. Disconnect the spark plug wires.
  2. Remove the spark plugs using a spark plug wrench.
  3. Clean the spark plug threads.
  4. Apply anti-seize compound to the new spark plug threads.
  5. Tighten the new spark plugs to the specified torque.
  6. Reconnect the spark plug wires.

Conclusion

The Lycoming O-360 is a reliable and efficient aircraft engine that has powered countless aircraft for decades. By understanding its specifications, performance, and maintenance requirements, you can ensure that your O-360 engine operates safely and effectively.

Tables

Table 1: Lycoming O-360 Variants

Variant Power Output (hp)
O-360-A1A 145
O-360-A1D 160
O-360-A1F6 180
O-360-A2A 180
O-360-A3A 200

Table 2: Lycoming O-360 Performance Data

Parameter Value
Maximum Continuous Power 180 hp at 2,700 RPM
Specific Fuel Consumption 0.55 lb/hp-hr
Oil Capacity 8 quarts
Coolant Capacity 12 quarts

Table 3: Lycoming O-360 Maintenance Intervals

Task Interval
Oil Change 50 hours
Filter Change 50 hours
Spark Plug Inspection 100 hours
Valve Adjustment 200 hours
Overhaul Interval 2,000 hours

Call to Action

If you own or operate an aircraft powered by a Lycoming O-360 engine, it is essential to familiarize yourself with its operation, maintenance, and safety requirements. By following the tips and recommendations outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your O-360 engine provides you with years of reliable and efficient service.

Time:2024-09-26 16:01:41 UTC

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