When monitoring cylinder head temperature (CHT), what is the significance of the highest reading?

The significance of the highest cylinder head temperature (CHT) reading relates to the performance of the hottest cylinder in the engine. In an internal combustion engine with multiple cylinders, variations in temperature can indicate how well each cylinder is operating. The highest CHT is critical because it highlights the performance of the cylinder that is experiencing the most heat, which can be due to factors such as fuel-air mixture discrepancies, ignition timing, or other mechanical issues.

Monitoring the highest CHT allows pilots and technicians to focus on that specific cylinder for maintenance or adjustments, ensuring the engine remains within safe operational limits. If a cylinder runs significantly hotter than the others, it could lead to overheating, detonation, or other performance issues, underscoring the importance of vigilant monitoring and addressing any anomalies in cylinder performance promptly.