I have recently purchased N53LB a IVP with 240
hours on it and the Continental TSIO 550E. I did a full
pre-purchse inspection and annual then flew it for 26 hours before changing the
oil again. Upon inspection of the oil filter we found metal. It
turned out to be from internal corrosion that caused the lifters to flake off
some of their surface hardness. 9 out of 12 to be exact. I have
since rebuilt it with a new Magnum cam and lifters. I assumed
that this was caused from being built in Florida and possibly not being
protected properly. But after putting it back together and flying it for
about 8 hours, I have noticed that it seems to build up internal condensation
after each flight. Once the engine cools down from the flight after a few
hours there is condensation on the oil filler tube and dip stick cap. I am
located in Calgary Alberta which is very dry this time of year, and I also
hangar it in a heated hangar. Has anyone else noticed this kind of
condesation after a flight? It's been a long time since I have flown
pistons but I do not remember ever having this kind of water on the oil
cap. To me this is probably why the engine had internal corrosion damage
to begin with. Is there any kind of crank case dryer available or is this
just a by product of a twin turbo charged engine? I have now taken to
removing the oil cap after each flight to let it dry out.
Any comments would be appreciated.
Barney Briton
New owner of Serial #134
N53LB