Lycoming O-320 150 HP

[Steve]

Anyone have experiance with 150HP 0-320 Lycomings past the 2000 Hr. TBO time? I am considering buying a plane equiped with one that was used for pipeline partol and is at 2600tt. The owner says it was used at 50% power mostly because it flew patrol. How much more can I expect to get out of it?

Also, Does anyone happen to know if a 1979 Citabria would have a wooden spar??

 

[LearLove]

I flew patrol for several years (grummans/cessnas/pipers) and we OH the engs at TBO but they really didn't need it. Its not because of the low power setting but more with the constant power setting (no on/off on/off, touch and go or other training eng abusive stuff). I bet the guy didn't fly around at 50% unless it was fish spotting but like I said its not a big factor as long as it was constant power. In relation to a training a/c I'd say you have a better chance with this eng than say an eng that was used for training or sat around in pvt hands hardly flying. Flying a/c are always better than hangar sitters. Why do you think commuter airlines and other airlines never have probs with corrosion. Its because air is always flowing thru the airframe and keeping it dry for the most part. However never say never in this buzz. I suggest you get an oil sample and have it tested.

 

[rfeathe1]

Steve--If the 79 Citabria has the original wings it has wood spars. There is nothing wrong with wood spars--I taught many hours of aerobatics in wooden spar Citabrias & Decathalons. Which model Citabria is it? Sorry I can't answer your query on the 0 320. 2600 hrs. is really pushing the TBO envelope a bit. I would suggest making an offer (assuming you want to buy the airplane) with a major OH in mind.