PA-28R Cherokee Arrow All Series
Flight Crew Student
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 35; Flight Crew Total 49; Flight Crew Type 45
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical
Air Traffic Control Provided Assistance; Flight Crew Returned To Departure Airport; Flight Crew Requested ATC Assistance / Clarification; General Maintenance Action; General Flight Cancelled / Delayed
Aircraft
Performed a touch and go during XC (Cross Country) flight. Upon rotation climbing out small vibration developed in yoke. At approximately 600 feet. MSL vibration began increasing slightly. Radio contact with request permission to do flyby to have them look at aircraft for landing gear possible issues. Was asked by ATC if I would like to return and land. I declined first request as I assessed the situation and began checking my instruments for indications of engine malfunction. Vibration began to increase rapidly and all systems were in the green. Power seem to be diminishing vibrations became excessive. I thought I saw light white smoke from right side of cowling and contacted ATC with information of my situation requesting landing clearance. Declining first runway; ATC cleared for alternative runway which I accepted and landed safely. Taxied to FBO and checked aircraft for fire potential. Performed file sump and oil level inspection to re verify conditions which appeared satisfactory. Oil lever had lowered from initial check list levels prior to departure. After 30 minutes I restarted the plane to check if icing has possibly been the issue. Having restarted the engine the violent vibration was even more pronounced and I shut down the engine. It has been verified by the mechanic a cylinder cracked and required replacement.
PA-28R Single pilot reported an uneventful air return due to engine malfunction.