So, my 15 year old son had a good idea...

[Steve]

... while we were on a $100 hamburger run a few weeks ago. Everyone knows that the IO-360 is sometimes tough to start hot (and it is hot a lot here in TX). I usually leave the oil door open when on the ground for less than a couple of hours, to allow better convective cooling of the engine compartment. The problem is keeping the door open more than a minute. If the wind is from the wrong direction (it always is) or gusty, the door will blow closed, and you are back at square one. I thought about installing a hinge spring on the oil door, but was afraid the increased load would crack the cowling.

My son suggested making a brace to hold it open. So my little project last week was to make one (see photos). It works great! It is now residing in the pilot's side pocket.

Just a thought for those hot climate hamburger runners...

[c2mlp]

Very nice job. Do you have any interest in making them to sell?

[Steve]

Not really, but it was very simple to make. I have more pictures during the construction process I can post if others are interested.

Steve

[Thomas]

We just had the first snow this year. But a very good idea for our next summer in Switzerland.

regards to Texas Thomas

[smoss]

Curious how much this helps with cooling??? Can you feel the heat pouring out, or is it a more minor effect?

[Steve]

Curious how much this helps with cooling??? Can you feel the heat pouring out, or is it a more minor effect?

It makes a big difference, based on CHT upon restart after an hour on the ground.

Steve

[Jean]

How big (°F) ?

[Steve]

How big (°F) ?

Depends on ambient, but as much as 40 °F after 60 minutes. Oil temp difference is less.

[Antoine]

Smart Kid Steve and nice work - congratulations. As Thomas said, we in Switzerland are not exactly in the market for such a device at the moment. Frrrrrrreeezing