Date: Tue, 14 Mar 2000 11:42:06 -0500
From: James Frantz <LFrantz@compuserve.com>
Subject: engine break in
Sender: James Frantz <LFrantz@compuserve.com>
To: Marve Kay <Lancair.list@olsusa.com>
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>>
>>concerns about engine break-in are real<<<

I too was concerned about this issue prior to my test flying but these
concernes turned out to be a non issue in my case. 

I installed the IO-360 brand new out of the box and installed it on my
never flown Lancair 360.  I found that a total of 15 minutes of run on
the ground was adequate to insure no leaks, systems operating OK, and a
single 60 knot taxi.  I then positioned the Lancair near the runway, started
it up till the oil temps were rising and took off.  I ran at 25 squared
for 30 minutes and landed.  I did not do any slow flight or other low
power maneuvers except for approach and landing.  Repeat test flights
were similar and my engine broke in at 7 hours as was confirmed by an
oil consumption to near zero and a reduction in cylinder head temps.  My
oil temps were running near the red line due to other problems but high
oil temps during the break in are desirable.  Lycoming said that they had
run my engine on a test stand for up to 2 hours. 

Some of the positives to breaking in an engine are to fly out of an
airport that is not busy with extensive ground delays and in pattern
restrictions.  Some folks that operate out of busy airports actually tow
the aircraft to the runup pad.  Keep the power high.  Keep the oil temps
high blocking a part of the oil cooler if necessary, avoid prolonged
ground runs, plan your test flight routine around the engine break in
restriction.

I also used the type oil as recommended by the manufacturer.  My engine
burns 1 quart every 12-15 hours flight time and I maintain the oil level
between 7 and 6 quarts.  Perhaps I was just lucky but I know of many
others with similar positive results.

Jim Frantz 


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