Leaning normal aspirated engines

[Mak]

Hi everybody,

I've been reading about leaning and engine management and found myself quite confused about what to do and what not to do.

For example, the normal leaning method, in the absence of good and accurate engine data (EGT ,CHT for every cylinder) is to lean until EGT reaches a peak and a little further. But I also read that operating near the max EGT region is very damaging for the engine. And then there's roughness and RPM clues about what's happening.

So, in the normal C1X2/PA28 environment, normally aspirated, fixed pitch propeller and with little or no engine information what's the best procedure to lean the engine without blowing it up (figuratively speaking... I hope)? and also at what density altitude can I expect to get enough range improvement to justify the increase in work load?

Thanks.

Mak