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Hi Everyone,  I have an Aircam with 914's on it, 2003 model.  I have only had the airplane 1 year so still learning.   The airplane recently sat for about 2 months.  When I went to burp the engines, the prop (both engines) turned about 1/2 turn and no more.  Not frozen, as I could move it backwards.  I finally got both free by rotating backwards about 8 turns and then forward.   I have flown it about 3 times with no problems.  Then today I went out to fly (been about 3 weeks) and the right engine is locked up again.  ( left turns OK).  I also seem to get a pretty good "clank" in the gearbox as I turn the prop.

Anybody got any ideas?

  • Re: 914 lockup

    by » 6 months ago


    Firstly, the propeller shouldn't be turned in reverse of the normal direction of engine rotation, as stated in step 4.3 of the Pre-flight checks procedure in the Rotax operator's manual.

    Secondly, it's possible that you have a hydro-locked cylinder with engine oil. As the engine sits for a duration of time, oil could be migrating into the cylinders. However, we aren't aware of any Aircams experiencing this issue. If you want to verify whether you are experiencing a hydro-lock situation, you can remove the bottom sparkplugs and check if any oil comes out. You should also see if you can rotate the engine freely in the normal direction.

    If you still encounter internal binding issues with the bottom sparkplugs removed, it would be wise to contact Lockwood Aviation and discuss this situation with them. They are not only the sellers of the AirCam but also the Rotax engine, and they can provide valuable insights into your specific situation.

    https://lockwood.aero/

    For any information (technical or sales) contact us by phone :
    Info Line: 863-655-5100
    Fax Line: 863-655-6225
    Order Line: 1-800-527-6829
    Tech. Line: 863-655-6229
    Tech. Avail: 9-10am, 2-3pm EST
    Hours: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. EST Monday - Friday


    Thank you said by: Kevin Patty

  • Re: 914 lockup

    by » 6 months ago


    Kevin i have a question...do you use 100LL?  Engines that have run only leaded fuel and without anything like Decalin in the fuel can get lead buildup in the cylinder head.  if you are in a very moist environment this lead deposit can come loose and get trapped in between the piston and head.  Turning it backward got it moved enough that you overcame the lock in the head (if I am correct)  

    So, first check the cylinder for an oil lock from sitting as Rotax Owner pointed out.  If you get oil coming out the spark plug hole you need to solve that.  If you get a bunch of small chips of tan/yellowish chips you have lead deposits in the head.  (suggests over rich operation also) 

    Let us know.

    Cheers

    37888_2_piston lead deposite.jpg (You do not have access to download this file.)

    Thank you said by: Kevin Patty

  • Re: 914 lockup

    by » 6 months ago


    I do not use 100 LL at all.  The eng does not turn freely in the proper direction at all.  Thanks for the ideas.  


  • Re: 914 lockup

    by » 6 months ago


    I do not use 100 LL at all.  The eng does not turn freely in the proper direction at all.  Thanks for the ideas.  


  • Re: 914 lockup

    by » 6 months ago


    I do not use 100 LL at all.  The eng does not turn freely in the proper direction at all.  Thanks for the ideas.  


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