The R-985 engine will run rather well on true 91 to 93 octane unleaded gasoline. The problem is more of a quality control issue than it is the engine’s ability or inability to effectively burn unleaded automotive fuel. It is true that the engine was designed and tested using leaded gasoline of various octane ratings.
Continue reading Quality Control as Relates to Auto Gas Use in Radial Engines
This is the sixth topic in the series about the 100 hour / annual inspection. This series focuses on maintenance performed during an effective 100 hr. inspection on R1340 and R985 engines.
Continue reading Importance of Fuel System Screens on your Radial Engine
This is the fifth topic in the series about the 100 hour / annual inspection. This series focuses on maintenance performed during an effective 100 hr. inspection on R1340 and R985 engines.
This is the fourth topic in the series about the 100 hour / annual inspection. This series focuses on maintenance performed during an effective 100 hr. inspection on R1340 and R985 engines:
Continue reading The 100 hour Radial Engine Annual Inspection Series – Compression Check
This is the third topic in the series about the 100 hour / annual inspection. This series focuses on maintenance performed during an effective 100 hr. inspection on R1340 and R985 engines:
Continue reading The 100 hour Radial Engine Annual Inspection Series – Ignition timing check
This is the second topic in the series about the 100 hour / annual inspection. This series focuses on maintenance performed during an effective 100 hr. Inspection on R1340 and R985 engines:
Continue reading The 100 hour Radial Engine Annual Inspection Series – Valve Adjustments
It’s annual inspection season again. I guess it like death and taxes…sure to come around. Lots of folks have asked “what should I have done to my engine during the annual?” The engine maintenance manual, part number 118611 contains the Periodic Inspection Tables listing the Requirements for the “A” (50 hr), “B” (100 hour inspection), “C” (200 hour) and “D” (Midway to Overhaul) inspections on R1340 and R985 engines. Of the requirements listed I’d like to offer some recommendations on seven of the “heavyweights”.
Continue reading The 100 hour Radial Engine Annual Inspection Series – Part 1
There are a number of Radial Engine Operation techniques that can shorten cylinder life (head failure). There are also a few mechanical problems that can cause premature cylinder head failure. The following items, hopefully, will shed some light on the subject.
Continue reading Radial Engine Operation Techniques That Can Shorten Cylinder Life
This article focuses on one specific item of maintenance performed during an effective 100 hr. inspection on R985 and R1340 engines: Ignition timing check.
Continue reading Magneto Timing on a Pratt R985 or R1340 Radial Engine
At Covington Aircraft, installing radial engines is part of our regular routine.
However, we find that many pilots and aircraft enthusiasts enjoy working on their own airplane, as this knowledge of mechanics can provide better safety during flight. By understanding the operation and parts of the radial engine, it also becomes easier to identify possible problems quickly, and to troubleshoot concerns in-flight for a smoother journey. Continue reading Getting A Fresh Start On Your Radial Engine