Description

We all should know that most general aviation aircraft engines are horizontally opposed 4 cylinder engines.

If an engine is not horizontally opposed, what other types are there?



What is the difference between a radial engine and a rotary engine?

Here is a rotary engine. The entire engine rotates.



We also should know, that most general aviation engines are air cooled. How can we tell an air cooled engine by looking at it?

Here is an air cooled engine



Here is a liquid cooled engine. Can you tell the difference between the air cooled and liquid cooled engine?



We all should know that most general aviation engines are 4 stroke. If it is not a 4 stroke, what else can it be?

Click here for the answer and more info

Lets start my Manco ATV. This does not have an electrical system. Why does this start and continue to run with no battery or electrical system?

Lets start my 1969 Russian Ural. This has a battery. Why does the Ural have a battery and an electrical system, but the Manco does not? Can we have an aircraft or airplane with no battery or electrical system?

What are some other ways to start an engine without an electric starter? Can we use a shotgun shell? Take a look at this video below.



Now lets do some preventative maintenance.

Oil change. What is oil used for in an engine? Why do we need to change it? Over time, oil can oxidize and thicken, losing its capability to flow smoothly throughout the engine. The outcome of this process can be an inefficiently lubricated engine, leading to a higher risk of engine component damage. Secondly, oil left unused in the engine can lead to the build-up of sludge.

Spark plug change. How can we tell if a socket is a spark plug socket (for non aviation use).

How to set the spark plug gap and why this is important. This is different on automotive engines and aircraft engines, however, the concept is the same. Aviation plugs have two electrodes compared to the one that you'll find in automotive plugs.

Click here for more information on why the spark plug gap is so important

Here are some fun things to do with old spark plugs

Here are a few more unusual engines in my collection.

Here is a Flame Licker engine

Here is a steam engine

Here are some highlights from my first hands-on engine workshop







CFILP EngineTechTip