M20M engines - will they make it to TBO? O/H cost?

[dico]

Hi All,

I understand that the M20M engines (Lycoming TIO-540 AF1B) are very expensive to overhaul (someone told me $70k) and that they generally don't make it to TBO.

I'm sure some of you have an M model Mooney with this type of engine.  Can you please let me know your thoughts on what an actual overhaul would cost... if it will make it to TBO..... and what the fuel burn is at 75% power.

Thanks,

-Dico

[KLRDMD]

Quote: dico

I understand that the M20M engines (Lycoming TIO-540 AF1B) are very expensive to overhaul (someone told me $70k) and that they generally don't make it to TBO. I'm sure some of you have an M model Mooney with this type of engine.  Can you please let me know your thoughts on what an actual overhaul would cost... if it will make it to TBO..... and what the fuel burn is at 75% power.

[FoxMike]

Dico,

I have owned a Bravo for seven years.  The last I heard from Lycoming they wanted about $65K for a rebuilt engine.  If I remember correctly not all the accessories and exhaust are included.  Since the field overhaulers know Lycoming is charging $65K they will quote you a few bucks less to overhaul your engine.  I think the engine will make TBO if it is not flown too aggressively.  I am starting to notice the impact of AD 2006-20-09 which requires crankshaft retirement.  Lots more engines will be affected in the next few years.  Premature overhaul is going to be required for many engines.  See Lycoming 569A for more information.

[carqwik]

I think most of the engines needing a new crankshaft per the AD probably have already been done.  There was a time limit on the "defective" cranks IIRC and Lycoming offered a deal on a replacement crank, like $2,000, for a new crank, new rings, and a bunch of other stuff with a retail value in excess of $15k if it was done by February 2008 (again, going from memory here).

As far as TIO-540-AF1B's going to TBO...it's likely it will if it's not abused and runs at 75% power or below.  The POH shows max cruise at 88% power which is a sure way not to get to TBO.

You may be referencing the original engine in the TLS which was -AF1A which had problems with the exhaust valves.  The -AF1B engine (as well as converted -AF1A engines to the 1B designation) fixed that problem.