Reciprocating Engines Lab

A piston engine, also known as a reciprocating engine, uses heat from one or more reciprocating pistons to convert pressure into a rotating motion. This rotating motion turns the aircraft's propeller, allowing for flight.

Students from all three Mohawk aviation technician programs - Aircraft Maintenance, Aircraft Structures and Avionics Maintenance - will use this lab to learn the operation and repair of piston engines. This lab features two sets of engines, one for senior and one for junior students, including over 20 Lycoming and Continental engines, popular in most small aircraft. Students learn to tear down the engines to understand the internal components, and how to troubleshoot, repair and install engines. Students also perform engine runs using Mohawk's operational aircraft.