914 Loss of Takeoff Power
Hi,
Today my Searey LSX with 914UL lost full takeoff power (manifold pressure and engine RPM) on takeoff. Normally, with boost active, I push ~40” of pressure at ~5500 RPM. I felt the drop in power and aborted the takeoff, and noticed it was only pushing ~30” and 3000 RPM. As I taxied off the runway, the engine began running rough every few seconds and the RPM began steadily dropping before I shut the engine off.
As background, the engine “idles” smooth at 2000 RPM but full idle is 1500 RPM. Normal cruise power for me is around 30” at 5000 RPM.
The engine sounded like it does on the days I misjudged the amount of choke needed on start, and it runs kind of rough around 1000 RPM before “catching” and smoothly accelerating to 2000-3000 RPM.
I checked the turbo wastegate cable, throttle cables, etc. and everything moves freely through their normal ranges. I didn’t appear to have a clogged fuel filter, and I popped off the turbo air filter and the fan blades moved freely without any binding.
Anyone have any ideas?! Thanks!
