Just trying to get the feel of a normal life of engine operation of Lycoming O-320 E2D.
Engine was overhauled in 1981 0-SMOH with not much else given but some simple logbook entries. I do not know if cylinders were new or overhauled at that time.
Engine now has 1,550 hours on it SMOH.
Cylinder #3 was replaced twice.
The first time it was replaced with a used but serviceable cylinder at 900 SMOH, and then at 1300 hours SMOH that used cylinder had low compression and was replaced again with a overhauled unit.
Cylinder #2 was repaired once due to a broken ring. (honed and new rings) at 1,300 SMOH
Cylinder #1 was just replaced due to low compression with overhauled unit. Crack found by the exhaust valve. exhaust valve guide worn.
Cylinder #4 (according to logbooks) appears to be original.
at that same time 1300 hours SMOH (year 2014) the cam and lifters were examined and found to be in mirror like condition. Two senior mechanics looked it over and said "just fix the cylinders and go fly it".
The reason I am asking is that I am aware of a few O-320's on the field that made 2,000 hours without any cylinders replaced. Perhaps the owners are not providing correct information?
I am trying to get a 'feel' for what is normal and what is not on these engines. And considering how long ago mine was originally overhauled (1981) perhaps I am lucky to even go this long before needing a complete overhaul?
Opinions??
Engine was overhauled in 1981 0-SMOH with not much else given but some simple logbook entries. I do not know if cylinders were new or overhauled at that time.
Engine now has 1,550 hours on it SMOH.
Cylinder #3 was replaced twice.
The first time it was replaced with a used but serviceable cylinder at 900 SMOH, and then at 1300 hours SMOH that used cylinder had low compression and was replaced again with a overhauled unit.
Cylinder #2 was repaired once due to a broken ring. (honed and new rings) at 1,300 SMOH
Cylinder #1 was just replaced due to low compression with overhauled unit. Crack found by the exhaust valve. exhaust valve guide worn.
Cylinder #4 (according to logbooks) appears to be original.
at that same time 1300 hours SMOH (year 2014) the cam and lifters were examined and found to be in mirror like condition. Two senior mechanics looked it over and said "just fix the cylinders and go fly it".
The reason I am asking is that I am aware of a few O-320's on the field that made 2,000 hours without any cylinders replaced. Perhaps the owners are not providing correct information?
I am trying to get a 'feel' for what is normal and what is not on these engines. And considering how long ago mine was originally overhauled (1981) perhaps I am lucky to even go this long before needing a complete overhaul?
Opinions??