Design and Development
The engine was originally conceived in the 1970s as the IO-400-X, but the project was never pursued.
The IO-390 family of engines, which Lycoming refers to as the IO-390-X, produce 200 hp (149 kW) to 210 hp (157 kW). The IO-390 was developed from the similar IO-360 engine, by using cylinders from the IO-580 to increase the O-360's cylinder bore. It features a tuned induction system, roller tappets and Slick Start ignition. The engine has a fuel injection system which meters fuel in proportion to the induction airflow with fuel vaporization taking place at the intake ports. The engine has a displacement of 390 cubic inches (6.39 litres). The cylinders have air-cooled heads.
The IO-390 was first introduced at AirVenture 2002. It has a factory recommended TBO of 2000 hours and requires a dynafocal engine mount.
The IO-390 was initially marketed through Lycoming's custom engine subsidiary, Thunderbolt Engines, prior to the engine's certification and was at that time only available for installation on non-certified aircraft. The IO-390 was certified on 30 March 2009 to FAR 33 effective February 1, 1965, as amended by 33-1 through 33-24.
In January 2009 the base price of the IO-390-EXP version was USD$$32,650.00.
In November 2009 Lycoming announced that they had obtained an FAA Supplemental Type Certificate to replace the originally fitted Lycoming O-360 engines in the Mooney M20E, M20F and M20J with a new or remanufactured IO-390-A3A6 engine.
Read more about this topic: Lycoming IO-390
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