What is the significance of cylinder head temperature (CHT) readings?

Cylinder head temperature (CHT) readings are crucial because they provide insight into the thermal condition of the engine. Monitoring CHT is important for several reasons. It helps ensure that the engine operates within safe temperature limits, which is essential for preventing overheating that can lead to engine damage, decreased performance, or catastrophic failure.

Engine performance, efficiency, and longevity can be directly affected by the thermal state of the cylinder heads. High CHT readings can indicate that the engine is running too lean, has insufficient cooling, or is experiencing other operational issues. Conversely, low CHT readings may suggest that the engine is running too rich or is under-loaded.

While CHT does relate to fuel efficiency indirectly, it is not a direct indicator of fuel efficiency on its own. Also, while CHT can provide insights related to fuel delivery issues, it is not exclusively diagnostic for that purpose. Additionally, monitoring oil pressure levels is a separate function and not directly correlated with CHT readings.

Understanding CHT helps operators make informed decisions about engine management and maintenance, thereby ensuring optimal operation and increasing safety.