Thanks for all the input.

 

I have been pulling the prop through 6 compression cycles, but apparently my "muscle memory" is not yet discerning enough!  I normally get squeamish if oil and coolant get to 200F, and don't think they have ever been much over 210F.  Oil pressure runs in the 50 - 90 psi range (as I recall).

 

The oil control ring is in fact damaged.  That piece was broken out.

 

Thanks for the chip offer, Tracy.  I will check the date on my last upgrade and let you know.

 

Lynn, it is likely that this seal was running broken for the last several hours, as the idle has been rough that long. It was just getting worse.  I will double check the CAS setting, but it always checks right where Tracy's manual says it should be.

 

Ed,  I am going back in with RWS apex seals.  Sticking with 2mm since the groves are good.  Putting in the old seal by its end, the most play I can find is 1/32" at the other end of the seal.  Am I correct to assume that is good?

 

 

Bill Eslick

 

PS  Jason also had a damaged oil seal.  My chip was on the outside of the large ring, and his was on the inside of the small ring.  Go figure.