COLD WEATHER OPERATION
 

STARTING

Prior to starting on cold mornings, it is advisable to pull the propeller through several times by hand to "break loose" or "limber" the oil, thus conserving battery energy.

NOTE
In extremely cold (-180C and lower) weather, the use of an external pre heater and an external power source are recommended whenever possible to obtain positive starting and to reduce wear and abuse to the engine and the electrical system. Pre-heat will thaw the oil trapped in the oil cooler, which probably will be congealed prior to starting in extremely cold temperatures. When using an external power source, the position of the master switch is important. Refer to Section 9, Supplements, for Ground Service Plug Receptacle operating details.

Cold weather starting procedures are as follows:

With Preheat:

1. With ignition switch OFF and throttle closed, prime the engine two to four strokes as the propeller is being turned over by hand.

NOTE
Use heavy strokes of primer for best atomization of fuel. After priming, push primer all the way in and turn to locked position to avoid possibility of engine drawing fuel through the primer.

2. Propeller Area -- CLEAR.
3. Avionics Power Switch -- OFF.
4. Master Switch -- ON.
5. Mixture -- FULL RICH.
6. Throttle -- OPEN 1/4 INCH.
7. Ignition Switch -- START.
8. Release ignition switch to BOTH when engine starts.
9. Oil Pressure -- CHECK.

Without Preheat:

1. Prime the engine four to eight strokes while the propeller is being turned by hand with the throttle closed. Leave the primer charged and ready for a stroke.
2. Propeller Area -- CLEAR.
3. Avionics Power Switch -- OFF.
4. Master Switch -- ON.
5. Mixture -- FULL RICH.
6. Pump throttle rapidly to full open twice. Return to 1/4 inch open position.
7. Ignition Switch -- START.
8. Release ignition switch to BOTH when engine starts.
9. Continue to prime engine until it is running smoothly, or alter nately, pump throttle rapidly over first 1/4 of total travel.
10. Oil Pressure -- CHECK.
11. Pull carburetor heat knob full on after engine has started. Leave on until engine is running smoothly.
12. Primer --LOCK.

NOTE
If the engine does not start during the first few attempts, or if engine firing diminishes in strength, it is probable that the spark plugs have been frosted over. Preheat must be used before another start is attempted.
CAUTION


OPERATION

During cold weather operations, no indication will be apparent on the oil temperature gage prior to takeoff if outside air temperatures are very cold. After a suitable warm-up period (2 to 5 minutes at 1000 RPM), accelerate the engine several times to higher engine RPM. If the engine accelerates smoothly and the oil pressure remains nomal and steady, the airplane is ready for takeoff.

Rough engine operation in cold weather can be caused by a combina tion of an inherently leaner mixture due to the dense air and poor vaporization and distribution of the fuel-aft mixture to the cylinders. The effects of these conditions are especially noticeable during operation on one magneto in ground checks where only one spark plug fires in each cylinder.

For optimum operation of the engine in cold weather, the appropriate use of carburetor heat may be necessary. The following procedures are indicated as a guideline:

NOTE

HOT WEATHER OPERATION

The general warm temperature starting information in this section is appropriate. Avoid prolonged engine operation on the ground.
 

NOISE ABATEMENT

Increased emphasis on improving the quality of our environment requires renewed effort on the part of all pilots to minimize the effect of airplane noise on the public.

We, as pilots, can demonstrate our concern for environmental improvement, by application of the following suggested procedures and thereby tend to build public support for aviation:

The certificated noise level for the Model 172RG at 2650 pounds maximum weight is 73.9 dB(A). No determination has been made by the Federal Aviation Administration that the noise levels of this airplane are or should be acceptable or unacceptable for operation at, into, or out of, any airport.