Reciprocating Engine Flashcards
What are the basic types or configurations of reciprocating engines?
Inline, opposed, v-type, and radial.
In what position should the crankshaft be when a magneto is being timed to the engine?
The piston in cylinder number 1 should be in the correct position for ignition to occur. This is normally about 30° before top center on the compression stroke.
What is checked on engine runup to determine the operational condition of the engine?
Idling RPM and manifold pressure, engine acceleration, maximum static RPM and manifold pressure, magneto drop, ignition switch safety check, propeller pitch change, propeller feathering, oil pressure, fuel pressure, and fuel flow.
What is a hydraulic lock in an aircraft engine?
Oil has drained past the piston rings and filled the combustion chamber of cylinders that are below the center line of the engine. If the crankshaft is turned over with this oil in the cylinder it will lock, and there is a probability that the piston, cylinder, or connecting rod will be damaged.
A hydraulic lock is too much liquid in the combustion chamber.
How is a hydraulic lock removed from an aircraft engine?
Remove a spark plug from the locked cylinder and drain all the oil out. Clean the spark plug and replace it.
What are the strokes of a 4-stroke reciprocating engine?
Intake, compression, power, and exhaust.
What are two main causes of a cylinder having low compression?
Piston rings not seating or broken, and valves not seating or burned.
What is a low-tension ignition system?
It is an ignition system using a magneto with a brush-type distributor and a coil that has no secondary wiring. Low voltage is directed from the magneto to a transformer mounted on the cylinder head. Here the low voltage is boosted to a high voltage and is directed through a very short high-tension lead to the spark plug.
*Low-tension just means the system uses low voltage to create that spark.
What are some advantages of a horizontally opposed engine?
Low power-to-weight ratio, ideal for installation on aircraft wings, and low vibration.
Reduced vibration due to inherent balance.
a low center of gravity
good forward visibility
smooth operation,
