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3 Answers

Injector engine fuel pump broken, low wing aircraft. Cold Start possible?

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Aircraft Systems, General Aviation, Private Pilot

  Hello, on a IO360 fuel injected engine is a cold start of the engine possible with a low wing aircraft? It broke down yesterday and doesn't seem to work. We're currently stuck otherwise. Will the mechanical pump provide enough pressure when cranking? What may be the best procedure? Any experience? Thanks for the help

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3 Answers



  1. Kris Kortokrax on May 03, 2015

    When you say that you are stuck, it implies that you are wanting to get the plane running so you can fly home (or somewhere else).

    If the electric fuel pump is inoperative, you cannot legally fly the airplane. It is unairworthy.

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  2. Best Answer


    Bill Zaleski on May 03, 2015

    I will address the questions asked. It is obvious to me that you are asking mechanical/system questions, rather than regulatory ones.

    No, the mechanical pump alone will not provide enough pressure to start the engine. The injector flow divider on top of the engine requires at least 4 PSI in order to overcome the fuel shut off spring inside of it. You will not get this much from a spinning starter.

    You can, however, probably get it started by removing the top spark plugs and putting about 10 drops of fuel in each cylinder. Then the mechanical pump will provide enough fuel pressure to continue running.

    For regulatory guidance, refer to the first answer.

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  3. Dood1 on May 04, 2015

    Thanks Bill, it was not a regulatory question more out of curiosity if we can’t get maintenance here. But problem seems solves, new fuel pump on the way. Still good to know the mechanics behind it. So thanks a lot.

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