On 13 Sep 2006 18:03:13 -0700, wrote:

If there is "oil on plugs", unless a valve is leaking, the compression
will tend to be "good". The oil helps keep the air from squeezing out
the bottom.

The working Aztrucks that I allegedly used to maintain would start
pumping oil throught the I-valve guides around at 1500-1700 hours.
Often by 1800-1900 hours the plugs would need cleaned at least every
50 hours to keep them from fouling out.

Compressions stayed right up there...

It's not going to cause the engine to stop/aircraft to fall out the
sky-I would have to agree that it is "normal", but would be cause
enough for me to ask for something off the asking price.

TC

Hi:

Looking at a PA32-260, with a IO-540 in it, 1500smoh. Prebuy reports a
couple cylinders in which there is oil on plugs. Compressions are good,
engine runs good. Mechanic doesn't seem too upset by it. Says that is
normal for this type engine. Should I be concerned?