Posted for "Larry Klaas" <LDK@bendcable.com>:

For Chuck Brenner and the "lets do a better engine" idea.

 The TSIO-550 does not need a top overhaul every 400-600 hours.  It depends
on how they're flown.  I know of a 'D' engine (which had the high ring
pressure and was prone to a 500 hour top) with over 1000 hours and no top
yet.  I flew my 'E' engine to 750 hours and it was fine when I sold my plane
(I am doing a turbine now).  If I were doing a different engine I'd only do
the turbine.  As far as experimenting with different engines you'll also get
to do all the R&D, time, trouble, pain, suffering that goes with any new
install.  Both these engines were flown LOP at a bit lower power settings
and had no problems.

Stick with the tried and true, do the TSIO-550 or the turbine.  Then you can
fly rather than tinker and fix.  Also think about resale with a non-standard
engine.

 

Larry Klaas

2625 NW Ordway Ave

Bend, OR 97701-5497

Tel: 541-388-2420  Fax: 413-581-0178