## Lycoming O-360 Engine: A Paramount Powerplant for Aviation

### Introduction

The Lycoming O-360 engine is a legendary aircraft engine renowned for its exceptional performance, reliability, and versatility. This horizontally opposed, four-cylinder powerplant has become a mainstay in the aviation industry, powering countless single-engine and light-twin aircraft for over six decades.

### Design and Construction

The Lycoming O-360 engine features a rugged and durable cast iron crankcase, which provides a robust foundation for the engine's internal components. The crankshaft is meticulously machined from high-strength steel and supported by seven main bearings, ensuring smooth operation and extended service life. The cylinders are precision-crafted from forged aluminum alloy, providing excellent heat dissipation and durability under demanding operating conditions.

### Fuel System

The engine's fuel system incorporates a dual-inlet carburetor that delivers a consistent air-fuel mixture to the cylinders. The carburetor is meticulously calibrated to optimize engine performance and fuel efficiency across a wide range of operating conditions. The fuel pump, driven by the accessory gearbox, ensures a reliable supply of fuel to the carburetor.

### Ignition System

The Lycoming O-360 engine employs dual ignition systems, each consisting of a magneto and spark plugs. This redundant ignition system enhances reliability and ensures trouble-free engine starts, even in adverse conditions. The magnetos are driven by the accessory gearbox, providing precise spark timing for optimized engine performance.

### Lubrication System

The engine's lubrication system utilizes a pressure-fed oil pump to distribute pressurized oil throughout the engine. The oil pump draws oil from the oil sump and forces it through a series of oil passages and galleries to lubricate all critical components, including the crankshaft, camshaft, and bearings. The oil sump is equipped with an oil filter to remove impurities from the circulating oil, ensuring optimal lubrication and engine longevity.

### Cooling System

The Lycoming O-360 engine is equipped with a high-efficiency air-cooled system. The cylinder heads feature integral cooling fins that dissipate heat from the cylinders into the surrounding air. The engine incorporates a cooling shroud and baffling to direct airflow around the cylinders for optimal cooling efficiency.

### Accessories

The Lycoming O-360 engine can be equipped with a wide range of accessories, including a starter, alternator, voltage regulator, and vacuum pump. These accessories are driven by the engine's accessory gearbox, which is mounted on the rear of the engine. The starter engages with the flywheel to initiate engine rotation, while the alternator generates electrical power for the aircraft's electrical system. The voltage regulator ensures proper voltage output from the alternator, and the vacuum pump provides vacuum for the aircraft's pneumatic systems.

### Performance and Applications

The Lycoming O-360 engine delivers exceptional performance across a wide range of operating conditions. Its maximum continuous power output ranges from 180 to 200 horsepower, depending on the specific model. The engine's low fuel consumption and extended time between overhauls (TBO) make it an ideal choice for both recreational and commercial aviation applications.

The Lycoming O-360 engine has been widely used in numerous single-engine aircraft, including the Cessna 172, Piper Cherokee, and Beechcraft Bonanza. It has also found its place in light-twin aircraft, such as the Cessna 310 and Piper Seneca. The engine's versatility and reliable performance have made it a preferred choice for aviation enthusiasts, flight schools, and commercial operators worldwide.

### Conclusion

The Lycoming O-360 engine is a testament to the engineering excellence of Lycoming Engines. Its rugged construction, exceptional performance, and proven reliability have positioned it as one of the most trusted aircraft engines in aviation history. Whether powering single-engine trainers or light-twin aircraft, the Lycoming O-360 engine continues to be an indispensable workhorse in the skies.

This Illustrated Parts Catalog (PC-306-2) contains a complete parts listing for the Textron Lycoming O, LO, TO,-360 Series Wide Cylinder Flange Model aircraft engines.

It is clear and written in a way so that just about anybody can follow it

This manual is BOOKMARKED...
-So you can Find What You Need To Know Quickly
-Just Click on the Bookmark & that Page Comes Up

This manual is SEARCHABLE...
-Just type in what you are looking for & that Page will come up

Why pay big bucks to have someone else print it for you?

Print what you need when you need it!

Save a tree, buy digitally!

We have thousands of Airplane & Engine Manuals - Please email us about any you might need!
Tags: O-360 LO-360 TO-360