Lancair ES-P, Pilot Operating Handbook

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monoxide in the cockpit can result in similar symptoms.
An open vent to increase cabin ventilation should be used even to the
extent of colder than desirable temperatures. This latter should be
anticipated if an exhaust heater is being used. A carbon monoxide
detector in the cockpit is good insurance for winter operations.
ENGINE FAILURE
Engines can fail at any time, and one of the most likely and worst times
is on takeoff. This is when the most is being asked of the engine and
there is the least amount of time to react. On take-off, if runway exists,
attempt to stop, and even accept an overrun "into the weeds." After lift
off, the number one rule is to maintain flying speed. Climbing at V
X
(greatest altitude for the distance traveled) after rotation provides the
most altitude in the least amount of time and reduces your exposure to
that low altitude glide to a landing. Do not attempt to turn around
unless you have 800 feet AGL, just land on the remaining runway or
within ± 30° of the takeoff heading, maintaining control thru initial
impact and until the aircraft comes to rest. Should you ever have this
unfortunate occurrence you'll be happy you used the entire runway
available rather than making the takeoff from the intersection to avoid
the long taxi to the "far end" of the field.
Again on the positive side, engine failures without warning are
extremely rare. Being mechanical devices there is almost always some
warning of a failure. Oil consumption increases, vibration increases
due to the stuck valve, reduced power shows itself by an increased
takeoff time and distance, metal chips are caught in the oil filter, etc.
Paying attention to your "one and only" is most important. As
suggested earlier, engine instruments are now available which can
provide the information which, when faithfully tracked, will warn of
failure of this mechanical marvel.
Water in the fuel system is a cause of engine failure. In cold weather it
can freeze in the filter, tank, or lines and limit or totally restrict fuel
flow to the engine. Preflight checks can completely control this
potential engine problem.
One problem which causes more engine failures than all others is
simply lack of fuel. Either the tanks are dry or the fuel valve is not on
the proper tank.