maintenance/longevity

[2cycle]

This question ocurred to me just a while ago as I watched an old Huey helicopter thunder over my house: Looking at the military, which observes strict maintenance schedules, and still fields 40-50 year old platforms like the Huey and B-52 as viable options to new weapons programs, is it realistic to take the same view with the outboard industry that that venerable inline 6 or Jonnyrude triple, properly and consistently maintained, is ultimately a much better option over the long haul than the "latest and greatest?"

 

[2cycle]

Re: maintenance/longevity

Of course the analogy might break down at some point with the knowledge that these military platforms are upgraded periodically with generational improvements - an option not always available to the outboard owner (I'd love to buy a "kit" to switch my distributor ignition on my Merc Inline 6 to ADI for example).

 

[JB]

Re: maintenance/longevity

I do believe that those engines will last a lot longer with regular decarbonization and regapping of the plugs. Prompt attention to any fuel system bugs, replacement of gearcase oil and thorough winterization before long-term storage (over a few weeks) also make a difference, IMO.<br /><br />Does that make them better alternatives than state-of-the-art engines? I don't think so, but it does make them much less expensive alternatives.

 

[JRJ]

Re: maintenance/longevity

My guess is that the most expensive parts on the B-52's and the Hueys have been replaced and updated to the point that there is way more money in them than they cost new. But thats OK with me Been a long time since I watched ready birds scramble. Talk about smoke

 

[Solittle]

Re: maintenance/longevity

I have read where the "typical" boater will run his/her rig 50 hours per year. I have also read where these motors can run several thousand hours without opening them up. Lets see - - 50 hrs/yr into 2,000 total hrs = 40 years.<br /><br />Frequently there are posts here from folks who have 40-50 year old motors that are still running. I wonder of any/many of the 2005 motors will still be running in 2045-50 with all the sensors and computer chips. Won't make much difference to me as I hope to be looking down from above by then - - but maybe be lookin up from below. Hmmmmmmm.

 

[ARCWINSTON]

Re: maintenance/longevity

"We have been flying this B52 for 50 years and it has only had 4 sets of wings, 3 fuselages, 40 engines and 2 complete rewires" If,in proportion, we spent as much on our motors as they spend on those aircraft they would last a hundred years...W

 

[Solittle]

Re: maintenance/longevity

I wonder how many axles would you have to have on your trailer for a B-52. Electric or surge brakes??? And then there is the tow vehicle????