Just a curious question for the group. Admittedly I just begun to do this both for what can be learned and confirm what I believe I know about my engine so far.
I've always monitored the engine using what may be considered "old school" methods.
1) Change the oil & filter at 25-30 hours. Note the the condition of the oil. How dirty is it? Does it have that overdone/over used odor to it? How does it feel between your fingers?
2) Check the magnetic drain plug for particles. True that not all metals are magnetic but this is still an indicator I use.
3) Open the filter and search the pleats for particles. BTW ... I recently learned a cheap, quick & dirty way to open an oil filter if you don't have the proper tool:
4) Hot idle oil pressure. This is a great indicator of wear. Try to monitor at the same oil temp & engine RPM before shut down after a flight.
5) Listen to the engine and get in tune with it. Most engines will give you some warning before serious trouble starts if you listen carefully.
These methods I've used so far seem to be working as planned as the first analysis came back "Normal." But using analysis could be a bacon saver as I recently read a story where an owner discovered by oil analysis that his cam gear was failing and would have shortly failed completely. So the small cost seems to be well worth it. Your thoughts?
I've always monitored the engine using what may be considered "old school" methods.
1) Change the oil & filter at 25-30 hours. Note the the condition of the oil. How dirty is it? Does it have that overdone/over used odor to it? How does it feel between your fingers?
2) Check the magnetic drain plug for particles. True that not all metals are magnetic but this is still an indicator I use.
3) Open the filter and search the pleats for particles. BTW ... I recently learned a cheap, quick & dirty way to open an oil filter if you don't have the proper tool:
4) Hot idle oil pressure. This is a great indicator of wear. Try to monitor at the same oil temp & engine RPM before shut down after a flight.
5) Listen to the engine and get in tune with it. Most engines will give you some warning before serious trouble starts if you listen carefully.
These methods I've used so far seem to be working as planned as the first analysis came back "Normal." But using analysis could be a bacon saver as I recently read a story where an owner discovered by oil analysis that his cam gear was failing and would have shortly failed completely. So the small cost seems to be well worth it. Your thoughts?
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