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My PA20 has an O290D in it. The oil pressure on my old pressure/temp gauge indicated right at 60 (the lower limit of the "normal" reading). However, my new one seems to be bit more sensitive and on a long cross country (2.5 hours) started indicating slightly under 60 in the yellow. Would it be a "normal" fix to adjust the oil relief valve to increase the "normal" reading? Or is there more to it than that? At what reading should I start freaking out and find a spot to top off the oil or be concerned that I'm burning up a lot of oil?
I'm trying to find a new A&P in my area as the guy that I was using is pretty much retired and doesn't have time for me any longer. So I have nowhere to ask but here at the moment!
How much oil are you burning in 2.5 hours? If it is enough to make your oil pressure drop you need to look into it.
Most people I talk to with Lycomings feel that adding a washer or two is perfectly acceptable. That engine is pretty old so it may even benefit from a new pressure relief spring but the burning oil may be the bigger issue.
I didn't think I was that low when I left and that's when it started to dip a bit. I always add oil up to the indentation on my dip stick, as that's where it likes to be without blowing it all out of the blow by tube. I added more before I came back home and it was fine on the way home. But, it still seems to hover right at 60 plus or minus 3.
Originally Posted by RRHall
How much oil are you burning in 2.5 hours? If it is enough to make your oil pressure drop you need to look into it.
Most people I talk to with Lycomings feel that adding a washer or two is perfectly acceptable. That engine is pretty old so it may even benefit from a new pressure relief spring but the burning oil may be the bigger issue.
I'm trying to find a new A&P in my area as the guy that I was using is pretty much retired and doesn't have time for me any longer. So I have nowhere to ask but here at the moment!
TIA!
I am a A&P, IA, DME, 35 years of experience. 20 years owning a 1950 Pacer and relatively close in Fort Atkinson
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Oil Pressure Question
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Originally Posted by RRHall
