C-47 Bluebonnet Belle

[bluehawk15]

This from the Highland Lakes Squadron, CAF:

C-47 ENGINE RUNS REVEAL SOURCE OF RECENT LEAKS

Many of you are aware of our recent maintenance efforts on the
Bluebonnet Belle over the last several weeks as the Squadron as we prepare for an up comingairshow in Farmington, New Mexico. Much work
was done and it was time to check the results of our recent maintenance
efforts with an engine run.

Carl Vernon, one of our AI’s and two of our A&Ps, Chuck Tully and
Mark Davis; and I were at the hangar on Sunday to perform an Ops Check on our C-47, Bluebonnet Belle. After pre-oiling Engine #1, she
started up nicely. Initial indications looked good. The leaks around the
push rod tubes and rocker arm covers appeared to be resolved.

The engine was clean except for a leak at the base of the number 13 cylinder.. Although this is a preliminary diagnosis, the cylinder was wet from the intake tube and aft. It appears the cylinder may have a bad seal, loose cylinder studs, or a crack at the base. Although this is not
great news, this is something we have experience dealing with and we have the necessary parts on hand.

After pre-oiling, Engine #2, she started up nicely. All indications looked
good from the cockpit. Oil pressures were even better than before, and were the strongest I’ve seen. A quick inspection showed no leaks around the oil return line fittings.

However, as the engine ran at idle, Carl discovered a crack in the
accessories case of the engine. Once he found the leak, he wiped it down with a rag while the engine was running. Oil soon reappeared as it weeped oil through a crack in the case.

This means (the Belle) will be off-line for the next few months as we undergo an engine change.