The A2A Simulations Community

Could I possibly hurt the engine by running full throttle at 8,500 feet?

Likely not...what rpm are you running and what's your manifold pressure at full throttle at 8500'?

It has been recently discussed here. Engine power is not a direct function of the throttle position, and the actual engine power is what really matters, not how wide your throttle is open. As long as you keep the engine performance numbers below limits no harm should be done.

MP 30" Prop 1850 rpm 30 gph

As a former owner with a desire to keep power settings on the low side with consideration of future overhaul costs, 30" seems a bit high for 1850 rpm, but I don't think you'd do any damage to the engine with those settings. I used to cruise it at 25"/1750, so full throttle altitude would be higher in that case, but if using 30" for climb, I'd be no lower than 2000 rpm.

I am now cruising over Alaska 9000 ft, MP 2400, RPM 1840 Throttle 65% TAS 133MPH

I'm at 8,500 29.8"MP 1846 rpm 29.8GPH CHT 191°c GS161 TAS143 everything is in the green