"Maule Driver" wrote in message
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I've put over 1,000 of the 1,100 hours on this new O-360-C4f. Changed the
oil religiously. I didn't baby the engine but didn't abuse it either.
Always hangered etc.

My last oil analysis showed a doubling of iron 47.9ppm to 101.0ppm with 36
hours on the oil. Everything else normal. We did the filter and we found
very fine iron filings or dust with a magnet. How much - hard to tell.
No chunks though.

We're thinking cam and lifter.

My mechanic is playing it safe - called Signature and Mattituch who
recommended no more flying, split the case, and fix or overhaul.

I want some second opinions. I could fly 10 more hours and take another
look. We could pull a cylinder and check the cam I'm told.

I've read about Second OilPINION and Howard Felton - a knowledgeable
analysis of the metal seems like money well spent. Is he still in
business? Anyone know anyone else who can do this?

Any other factors? My exhaust manifold/heat exchanger broke and I flew
for 10 to 36 hours with it broken. Parts 'banging' around under the
cowling etc. Discovered it during oil change. I did let it sit without
running for 60+ days - a first for this aircraft.

Thoughts?

Maulesitter.

Since you let the aircraft sit for 60 days, is it possible (likely?) that
the metal you are seeing is simply the layer of rust that formed on your
cylinder bores?

KB