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When you check the cylinder compressions on an airplane engine, it’s important to “Hold That Prop!”  And on a twin engine airplane with 6 cylinder Continental engines and 3 bladed props, the prop blades will be positioned in one of two ways, depending on how the prop is installed on the engine.

Here’s a Cessna 310 showing the two possible positions that can typically happen after shutdown.  Listen to today’s episode to find out what was discovered during the compression test and what we did about it.

Also, we talk about some other tips and ideas for compression testing in general.

Compression testing can be a dangerous operation, so here are some tips to consider:

  • Compression testing is best done with two people, one to hold the prop and one to hold the gauges.
  • The person holding the prop is in charge.
  • Never attach the air hose to the cylinder unless someone is firmly holding the prop.
  • Establish a routine for compression testing to make it safer and more efficient.