Thorp Air Command - T18.net

Hey guys,

Time to get the engine running. The crank was replaced for prop strike befor I got it and it's only got 700 hrs. The thing is, it hasn't been run for 20 years. Got new seals and gaskets and don't intend to split the case if I don't have to. But I'm thinking I ought to get an inspection and OH on the cylinders (1400 hrs) so the engine could start out with low time again.

What's normal practice for such things? I don't mind doing my own work but don't have any special tools. Is there ever a need to replace valve springs? Are there reputable shops anyone would suggest and an idea of fair prices? One guy told me just pull a cylinder, check for rust on the cam and run it. Appreciate any suggestions.

Les Krumel, Albuquerque

I have heard of some guys bore scoping the cylinders for rust . Checking the cam for pits would be a good idea . Was the engine preserved at all ?

RB

Hi.

I see your T18 pictures....very very good job! I have some competition here

About your engine:
20 years is a long storage time. For me the minimum is to removed all the jugs and see inside the belly of the beast for the corrosion.... Lifter, valve and all the accessories need to be removed for cleaning and inspection.
With a good overhaul manual you have all the dimension and the specification about your engine. It's a good start. Here in Montreal we send engine to Gibson or Aircraft Specialities Services.
Small piston engine has no secret for me.

Don't forget in aviation " pay now or pay latter"
My 2 cents.
Good luck!

_________________
Thierry
French Canadian T-18
C-FPVE #091

Les: Not sure about tools, but here at KSEE we have an outfit that will rent just about any aircraft tool you need . I found them by chance when I was looking for scales to weigh the AC . I haven't gone done this road I am not sure if there are really any "special tools" other than those to remove the valve springs and a ring compressor ?

RB

Tools; you will need cylinder base wrench's. Wide deck engines use a box end and narrow deck use the allen cap. You can get away with not having a ring compressor if the rebuild shop installs the pistons (most do) in the cylinders. I have used a auto ring compressor and just gave my set of aviation compressor to SnF. You pull the piston down out of the cylinder just far enough to install the wrist pin. Bleed down the lifters and you can install them push rods by hand. I would difinitely have a shop manual on hand.

Forgot about the base wrenches . Been meaning to pick up a set on E-Bay ?

RB

Borescope; Goggle xcsource.com and look for "TE016" it is a small camera with led lighting and USB plug for $22.00
Ebay has them for a dollar or two less............

Thanks guys. I got the wrenches and manual. I'll take a look and see what's inside... Les.