Exceeding the engine's maximum manifold pressure may damage what component?

Exceeding the engine's maximum manifold pressure can lead to significant stress and potential failure in the cylinder components. The increased pressure within the manifold forces more air and fuel into the cylinders than the engine design can handle safely. This excessive pressure can result in several issues such as detonation or pre-ignition, which can ultimately cause damage to the pistons, cylinder heads, and valves. Prolonged exposure to these high pressure conditions can lead to mechanical failure, reducing engine performance and reliability.

While the other components like propellers and fuel injectors are critical to the overall function of the aircraft, they are typically more resilient to manifold pressure changes in terms of the direct effects of exceeding that specified limit. The direct impact of over pressure is most acutely felt in the cylinders, making it the primary candidate for damage in this scenario.