"You become the supervisor of your maintenance"

Ask the A&Ps

Can you fly a turbocharged airplane lean of peak? Absolutely! This episode, Mike, Paul, and Colleen describe how to do it. Email [e-mail] for a chance to get on the show.

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Full notes below.

Mike flies a turbo 206 and a 421 and is trying to fly lean of peak but the airplanes are running a bit rough. He wonders if there are tricks on turbocharged engines. The GAMI spread is half a gallon, so that’s not an issue. Paul said to start by getting the magneto timing really close and gap the spark plugs very tight. Mike said he might be trying to keep the cylinders too cool, which would make it run rougher. He recommends targeting 400 or 410 degrees on the Lycoming engines.

Adam read Mike’s column in AOPA PILOT about LSA viability when the manufacturer goes out of business. He’s been interested in buying an LSA, but the story gave him pause. The FAA wants nothing to do with LSAs, Mike said. The hosts then discuss the differences between certification and ASTM acceptance, and what it means to potential owners.

Garhett has had a bunch of maintenance-related failures, and it has prompted him to be more involved in his airplane’s maintenance. He’s now wondering the best way to obtain his A&P certificate. Paul suggests he should start by reading the FAA manuals. It took Mike 10 years to amass the required hours by working on his own airplanes under supervision. Short of going to school or getting a job as an apprentice, this is the best route. They then discuss creative ways to build experience.

Victoria wonders how to keep the family airplane clean when the airport doesn’t allow water to be used. Mike and Paul suggest flying somewhere else and washing it. Colleen said she would use water or cleaner wax from a spray bottle. Paul really likes Crazy Clean, but cautions against using anything other than water during pollen season. For windshields, Paul said Cessna recommends a lot of water, Dawn, and your hand. Definitely don’t use power tools, they say.