Lycoming O-320 complete overhaul

The engine was disassembled and overhauled in accordance with the procedures and specifications given in the applicable Lycoming Overhaul Manual and Lycoming Service Publication SPP-1776.

Major engine components were cleaned, inspected and measured to determine their condition and verify conformity with the applicable service limits and dimensional tolerances.

The work included inspection and assessment of the principal engine components, replacement of unserviceable parts and reassembly of the engine in accordance with Lycoming procedures and specifications.

Particular attention was given to the valve train and other internal surfaces because corrosion of the camshaft and lifters had been the reason for initiating the work.

Corrosion inside a Lycoming engine can be difficult to assess without disassembly. The camshaft and lifter faces are particularly important because deterioration in these areas can lead to progressive damage during operation.

In this case, the teardown required to replace the initially identified corroded components also made it possible to inspect the rest of the engine in detail. That inspection revealed additional components that were no longer considered serviceable.

Rather than replacing only the individual damaged parts and reassembling the engine, the findings led to a decision to carry out a complete overhaul and systematically evaluate the major components against the applicable Lycoming limits.

Measurements and inspections were documented as the work progressed before the engine was reassembled and returned to service.

This project involved an engine installed in an experimental aircraft.

The regulatory environment for experimental and amateur-built aircraft allows NEriks Air to undertake a considerably broader scope of technical work directly than would normally be possible on a certified aircraft.

For certified aircraft and engines, work requiring approved maintenance or certification is carried out through appropriately approved organisations and certifying personnel.

Projects such as this are representative of the type of work we undertake on experimental aircraft: combining practical engine work with technical documentation, dimensional inspection, parts research and systematic fault investigation.

For questions concerning an engine project, inspection findings or parts sourcing, contact NEriks Air to discuss the particular engine and scope of work.