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Skybolt IO-360 Needs Major - Upgrades/Update Suggestions?

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DC_Wolfe

Aerobatic Pilot
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HI All,

Started the Conditional inspection on our Skybolt and the Engine just became a nightmare.

Long story short, the engine was old, it sat, it corroded, put back into service, now Cam shot, pistons shot, time for a rebuild... Only 640hours but that was over 33 years...

So, since we're tearing it down anyway... Any suggestions on upgrades/changes to be made during the Major overhaul? I know we could put in high compression pistons (going from 8.5 to 10:1) which would give a bit more HP, but is it worth it? Does it reduce the TBO, and what's been your experience? With a fixed pitch prop, I'm afraid we might have to adjust/change that, too, with any extra HP, and I don't want to go down that additional $$$ road.

Thought of replacing the IO-360 with an IO-540, but just can't afford all that at the moment.

The IO-360 we have is the straight valve version.

With the OH, overhauled Mags, lifetime plugs... at least when it's done it will purr nicely ... I keep saying that to avoid crying into my beer :).

Tailwinds,
DC
 

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