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Hi all

We had severe vibration and loss of power two weeks ago during circuit training after setting full power during touch and go on our 1600 hrs 912 S3 which operates on MOGAS.

On the ground we had no compression on cylinder 1 and during inspection they found a burnt exhaust valve. See photo.

As we already had vibrations and power loss some 2 months ago, we borescoped all valves (but no failure found) and did a 200h inspection. but nothing found => expected carb icing as some water was found in the carburettors.

Since friends had the same problem about 6 months ago, I wanted to ask here if anyone knows if this happens regularly, what could be the reason and if there are preventive measures for this?

Thanks in advance for your inputs...

Best regards
Pascal

9657_1_IMG_4496.jpeg (You do not have access to download this file.)
  • Re: 912 S3 burnt Exhaust Valve

    by » one year ago


    Is there any chance you introduced air into oil lines?  Perhaps burped engine after draining oil, or removed an oil hose and not purged system per Rotax instructions?  Rotax can get air in hydraulic lifters which can cause valves not to seat properly.  Just a thought.....


  • Re: 912 S3 burnt Exhaust Valve

    by » one year ago


    not that i know. Plane was flying for hours after the maintenance check without any issues until the event.


  • Re: 912 S3 burnt Exhaust Valve

    by » one year ago


    Typically an exhaust valve problem, burnt valves are usually the result of hot combustion gasses escaping between the valve and valve seat when they don’t seal properly. Adequate sealing between the two also allows combustion heat to be conducted from the valve and into the seat, preventing the valve from overheating.

    Detonation and pre-ignition can also cause elevated combustion temperatures and lead to burnt valves, so make sure you are running the recommended fuel grade. Carbon deposits can also prevent the valve from properly seating and lead to a burnt valve condition. If the valve no longer closes completely, the valve and seat will burn.

    Another cause of burnt valves is valve seat recession. If the valve no longer closes completely, the valve and seat will burn. Carbon deposits can also prevent the valve from properly seating and lead to a burnt valve condition.

    Doing regular leak-down checks may help prevent this from occurring as it will provide clues as to how well the valves are sealing. If you are getting low readings, it indicates that cylinder head work (lapping valves) may need to happen. 

    Other possible causes include:

    • Overloading the propeller
    • Improper purging of the oil system (Flat lifters), need to examine the lifters and valvetrain for signs of hammering and replace all worn/damaged components.
    • If the cause is detonation or pre-ignition, you need to check the piston, cylinders, and other components within the combustion chamber.  
    • Loose valve guide
    • Cocked or weak valve springs
    • Lean air/fuel mixture (check for induction leaks) ie. cracked carburetor sockets.

    References:

    Service Instruction Rotax released regarding suitable operating fluids for ROTAX® Engine Type 916 i (Series), 915 i (Series), 912 i (Series), 912, and 914 (Series) -   https://legacy.rotaxowner.com/si_tb_info/serviceinfo/si-912-016-r13.pdf

    Video on how to perform a differential compression test (leak-down test): - https://www.rotax-owner.com/en/videos-topmenu/elearning-videos/181-diff

    Video on how to prevent detonation/pre-ignition - https://www.rotax-owner.com/en/videos-topmenu/elearning-videos/201-detonation119

    Video on purging the lubrication system: https://www.rotax-owner.com/en/videos-topmenu/expanded-video-instructions/33-exp-si-912-01813

     


    Thank you said by: Pascal Ganz

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