Failure Of Engine To Start - Lycoming O-320 76 Series Operator's Manual

LYCOMING SERIES OPERATOR'S MANUAL
O-320
Experience has proven that the best method of trouble-shooting is to decide on the various causes of the
given trouble and then to eliminate causes one by one, beginning with the most probable. The following
charts list some of the more common troubles, which may be encountered in maintaining engines; their
probable causes and remedies.
1. TROUBLE-SHOOTING – ENGINE.
TROUBLE

Failure of Engine to Start

SECTION 6
TROUBLE-SHOOTING
PROBABLE CAUSE
Lack of fuel.
Overpriming.
Defective spark plugs.
Defective ignition wire.
Defective battery.
Improper operation of magneto
breaker.
Lack of sufficient fuel flow.
Water in carburetor.
Internal failure.
SECTION 6
TROUBLE-SHOOTING
REMEDY
Check fuel system for leaks. Fill
fuel tank. Clean dirty lines,
strainers or fuel valves.
Leave ignition "off" and mixture
control in "Idle-Cut-Off", open
throttle and "unload" engine by
cranking for a few seconds. Turn
ignition switch on and proceed to
start in a normal manner.
Clean and adjust or replace spark
plugs.
Check with electric tester, and
replace any defective wires.
Replace with charged battery.
Clean points. Check internal
timing of magnetos. Check
impulse action of dual breaker
points. Check lead for grounding.
Disconnect fuel line and check
fuel flow.
Drain carburetor.
Check oil screens for metal
particles. If found, complete
overhaul of the engine may be
indicated.
6-1