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3 Answers

Leaning mixture

Asked by: 4318 views Aircraft Systems, Private Pilot

In a normally aspirated piston trainer, as I climb from sea level to say 10,500 how do I handle leaning the mixture?  Do I level at various intervals?  Do I simply lean a little periodically as I climb?  What is your recommendation?

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3 Answers



  1. Sam Dawson on Oct 28, 2013

    I’m assuming you don’t EGT/CGT probes. Starting at a DA of about 3000′ I lean until the engine runs rough, then enrichen until smooth, then a few more twists in.

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  2. Harry on Oct 28, 2013

    I lean gradually as I climb. Best power Higher RPM is indicator without Raising Oil temp (Cylinder head). at level Altitude I make final Mixture power adjustments for Endurance and safe flight

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  3. Thomas Vaillencourt on Dec 21, 2013

    You might want to check the engine manufacturers leaning procedures in the engine operators manual. Many advise against leaning when at high power settings. If you are using full power to climb as you would on initial climb out, it’s best to lean when you are established level and power is reduced to cruise power. If climbing gradually with cruise power you could lean every few thousand feet on your way up.

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