Engine Partial Power Loss - Cirrus DESIGN SR20 Information Manual

Cirrus Design
SR20

Engine Partial Power Loss

Indications of a partial power loss include fluctuating RPM, reduced or
fluctuating manifold pressure, low oil pressure, high oil temperature,
and a rough-sounding or rough-running engine. Mild engine
roughness in flight may be caused by one or more spark plugs
becoming fouled. A sudden engine roughness or misfiring is usually
evidence of a magneto malfunction.
Low oil pressure may be indicative of an imminent engine
failure – Refer to Low Oil Pressure procedure in this section
for special procedures with low oil pressure.
A damaged (out-of-balance) propeller may cause extremely
rough operation. If an out-of-balance propeller is suspected,
immediately shut down engine and perform Forced Landing
checklist.
If a partial engine failure permits level flight, land at a suitable airfield
as soon as conditions permit. If conditions do not permit safe level
flight, use partial power as necessary to set up a forced landing
pattern over a suitable landing field. Always be prepared for a
complete engine failure and consider CAPS deployment if a suitable
landing site is not available. Refer to Section 10, Safety Information,
for CAPS deployment scenarios and landing considerations.
If the power loss is due to a fuel leak in the injector system, fuel
sprayed over the engine may be cooled by the slipstream airflow which
may prevent a fire at altitude. However, as the Power Lever is reduced
during descent and approach to landing the cooling air may not be
sufficient to prevent an engine fire.
If there is a strong smell of fuel in the cockpit, divert to the
nearest suitable landing field. Fly a forced landing pattern and
shut down the engine fuel supply once a safe landing is
assured.
P/N 13999-002 Info Manual
September 2011
• Note •
• Note •
• WARNING •
(Continued on following page)
Section 3
Emergency Procedures
3-13