Improperly Installed Intake Gaskets

Unairworthy.

3

We noticed the intake gaskets were leaking on cylinders 3 and 4 on the Lycoming IO-320 in an RV-9A. There was a logbook entry by the owner/builder for having replaced them. They were in fact installed improperly, preventing a proper seal.

As you can see from the pictures, the gaskets were installed on the lower side of the flange, instead of between the flange and the cylinder. This not only causes leaks, but will also cause the cylinder to run lean.

 

3 COMMENTS

  1. In the photos there is evidence of an exhaust “Blow Proof” 2piece gasket used on an intake tube and then the other pic shows where the installer missed the intake clamping area “wrong side off intake flange. Some training is needed in both places.

  2. This is great info. I can see the mistake clearly, and I can see how someone would make that mistake.
    Thanks for the tip. I love learning from other people’s mistakes. It’s a lot less painful that learning from my own mistakes.
    -Kevin

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.