Section 4
Normal Procedures
Columbia 400 (LC41-550FG)
RC050002
Initial Issue of Manual: November 10, 2004
4-34
Latest Revision Level/Date: -/11-10-2004
complicating the starting procedure. False starting (failure to continue running after starting)
often results in the formation of moisture on spark plugs due to condensation. This moisture can
freeze and must be eliminated either by applying heat to the engine or removing and cleaning the
spark plugs. Cold starting can be improved if the primer switch is kept depressed during engine
start or the arming the boost pump, which turns on high boost until the engine is running.
CAUTION
Superficial application of preheat to a cold-soaked engine can cause damage
to the engine since it may permit starting but will not warm the oil
sufficiently for proper lubrication of the engine parts. The amount of damage
will vary and may not be evident for several hours of operation. In other
situations, a problem may occur during or just after takeoff when full power
is applied.
The use of a preheater is required to facilitate starting during cold weather and is required when
the engine has been cold soaked at temperatures of 20
°
F (-7
°
C) or below for more than two
hours. Be sure to use a high volume hot air heater. Small electric heaters that are inserted into the
cowling opening do not appreciably warm the oil and may result in superficial preheating.
Apply the hot air primarily to the oil sump, filter, and cooler area for 15 to 30 minutes, and turn
the propeller by hand through six to eight revolutions at 5 to 10 minute intervals. Periodically
feel the top of the engine, and when some warmth is noted, apply heat directly to the upper
portion of the engine for five minutes to heat the fuel lines and cylinders. This will ensure proper
vaporization of the fuel when the engine is started. Occasionally transfer the source of heat from
the sump to the upper part of the engine. Start the engine immediately after completing the
preheating process. Since the engine is warm, use the normal starting procedures.
WARNING
Failure to properly pre-heat a cold soaked engine could result in oil
congealing within the engine, oil hoses, and oil cooler with subsequent loss of
oil pressure, possible internal damage to the engine and subsequent engine
failure.
CAUTION
Do not leave engine mounted preheaters on for more than 24 hours prior to
flight. Continuous operation of engine mounted preheaters may result in
aggressive corrosive attack to the engine internally.
WARNING
To prevent the possibility of serious injury or death, always treat the
propeller as though the ignition switch is set to the ON position. Before
turning the propeller by hand, use the following procedures. Verify the
magnetos switch is set to off, the throttle is closed, and the mixture is set to
idle cutoff. It is recommended the airplane be chocked, tied down, with the
pilot’s cabin door open to allow easy access to the engine controls.
