MINIMISING THE RISK OF ENGINE FAILURE

Almost from the beginning of our training, pilots are taught how to react to an engine failure. However we are also taught how to conduct a preflight inspection to ensure the engine and the rest of the aircraft) is ready for what we are planning. Since mechanical engine failures are a mgjor factor in accidents, understanding a typical piston engine in a personal aircraft is vital to your wellbeing. The fact is that reliability improvements often result in pilots giving little thought to piston engine aircraft reliability because failures have become so rare.

As measured by increases in the engine manufacturer's recommended time between overhaul (TBO), engines that are operated frequently, are regularly serviced with oil / filter changes and flown with accurate instrumentation are more reliable than ever. Despite claims of aircraft piston engines being outdated technology, improved materials and manufacturing processes together with advances in engine oil / additives and enhanced maintenance practices have made a difference. But that is not to suggest pilots and operators cannot do even more to help minimise the risk of engine failure.

Prevention

The task of preventing engine failures can be divided into two broad areas: maintenance and operation. These two general categories often overlap, especially when owner / pilots are involved in preventive maintenance. What really stands out in so many accident investigations resulting from engine failure is that pilots and maintenance personnel fail to follow established procedures. These can include conducting a very thorough engine run-up after maintenance and checking for leaks or can be as simple as ensuring there is oil in the crankcase.

However, one of the easiest ways to help prevent an engine failure is to closely monitor the engine parameters reported by the aircraft's instrumentation. Checking and recording previous indications like oil temperature, cylinder head temperatures, oil pressure and coolant temperature (if so equipped) and comparing them to what you are seeing today at least can help prevent the "I do not know if that is low or high" conversion with your mechanic.

A digital engine monitor literally can be a life-saving piece of equipment when used to compare long-term trends.