7000 TBO

[Bruce Byerly]

So you would skip the overhaul, Bruce?

Don,

I would never say skipping recommended overhaul intervals on any component “just because you can” is the right thing to do but, depending on the engines, I think it may be a real option. Given the value of the planes and our stage in the life cycle, it may be an attractive option if the engines are solid late model, regularly flown high SB status engines. If, for example, the engines are 40 years old and have never been overhauled.   then I’m guessing those engines are due.

I looked at a plane this week with props 19 years since overhaul. Legal? Yes. Smart, no. IMHO.

[donv]

Well, my engines are 40 years old and have never been overhauled!

[Bruce Byerly]

Well, my engines are 40 years old and have never been overhauled!

At least they are “the devil you know” 

Pretty good testament to the engines I suppose.  Just saw a $400k hot section on a 1300 hour TBM.  Gotta love those 331’s!

[donv]

$400k hot section? Ouch! I'll have to remember that if I ever get tempted by a TBM or PC12!

In my case, I think it's a testament to having been flown consistently 100-150 hours per year, every year, and never having been maintained anywhere other than a service center since new.

[SKYFLYER]

400K... I hope it was still under warranty

[donv]

Now I'm also seeing a couple of -5 Commanders advertised with 6000 hour TBO and 3000 hour hot section interval. What's the deal with that one?

[donv]

I've seen the service letter, and the gotcha appears to be that they want you to fly 800 hours per year, or do the overhaul within 9 years-- which is basically the same thing.

It's really aimed at airline customers. I thought those guys were on condition in the first place, but maybe not.