What action should be taken for a red over-temperature light on the T-6?

When a red over-temperature light illuminates on the T-6, the most appropriate action is to reduce power and monitor engine output. This approach allows the pilot to take initial steps to mitigate potential engine damage while assessing the situation. By reducing power, the pilot can decrease the engine's operating temperature, providing an opportunity to evaluate whether the light persists under lower power settings. Continuous monitoring of engine output is critical, as it assists the pilot in determining the severity of the issue and whether further actions are necessary.

Shutting down the engine immediately could be an overly hasty decision without first assessing the situation; it also may not provide the pilot adequate control of the aircraft during the shutdown procedure. Ignoring the warning and continuing to fly is inadvisable since this could lead to more severe engine damage or a catastrophic failure. Notifying ground control is important but should typically follow initial corrective actions; it’s more of a procedural step rather than an immediate response to an over-temperature indication.