John Deakin’s Engine-Related Columns

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • AVweb contributor John Deakin compiles his "Pelican's Perch" columns, offering expert insights on piston aircraft engines.
  • The collection covers diverse operational aspects, from fuel management, propeller dynamics, and turbochargers to mixture control and engine running strategies.
  • Deakin's articles often challenge common myths and provide practical advice on piston engine operation and maintenance.
  • This compilation serves as a valuable resource for understanding and maximizing the performance and longevity of piston aircraft engines.
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AVweb’s John Deakin has been studying, testing, and teaching about piston engines for a long time. This list is a collection of all his Pelican’s Perch columns related to piston engines.

Pelican’s Perch #7:
Run That Fuel Tank Dry!

Pelican’s Perch #8:
Go Ahead, Abuse Your Engine!

Pelican’s Perch #15:
Manifold Pressure Sucks!

Pelican’s Perch #16:
Those Marvelous Props

Pelican’s Perch #18:
Mixture Magic

Pelican’s Perch #19:
Putting It All Together

Pelican’s Perch #31:
Those Fire-Breathing Turbos (Part 1)

Pelican’s Perch #32:
Those Fire-Breathing Turbos (Part 2)

Pelican’s Perch #33:
Those Fire-Breathing Turbos (Part 3)

Pelican’s Perch #34:
Those Fire-Breathing Turbos (Part 4)

Pelican’s Perch #35:
Those Fire-Breathing Turbos (Part 5)

Pelican’s Perch #36:
Those Fire-Breathing Turbos (Part 6 – and FINAL!)

Pelican’s Perch #43:
Detonation Myths

Pelican’s Perch #46:
“But My Mechanic Says …”

Pelican’s Perch #55:
Lead in the Hogwash

Pelican’s Perch #57:
The Whyalla Report – Junk Science?

Pelican’s Perch #58:
FLYING’s Report on Whyalla

Pelican’s Perch #63:
Where Should I Run My Engine? (Part 1)

Pelican’s Perch #64:
Where Should I Run My Engine? (Part 2 — The Climb)

Pelican’s Perch #65:
Where Should I Run My Engine? (Part 3 — Cruise)

Pelican’s Perch #66:
Where Should I Run My Engine? (Part 4 — Descent)

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