Originally Posted by
RCFlyerDan
Once they are out of warranty, service hours really don't matter. You wait until it fails, have starting or running issues. Bearings usually warn you, and that is the main reason of the service. If you aren't using it to fly in a model, I wouldn't think that it matters, especially if you are looking for an older engine that is already out of warranty. Buying used, make sure you see it in person and see it run. The life time warranty engines you must meet their service requirements to remain under warranty. Just know that those engines aren't truly warrantied for life. One, when they build new model of engines, those companies don't make parts for the older and the obsolete ones. And, warranties are only as good as the longevity of the company. Which in this business is rarely a life time.
RCFlyerDan,
Lets think about that statement you made "Once they are out of warranty, service hours really don't matter. You wait until it fails, have starting or running issues" That would be an accurate statement if you planned on throwing it away once it blew up. Preventive maintenance can make a turbine last for easily 10+ years of service. If you let it run until the bearings fail, most turbine compressor and turbine wheels have a very tight tolerance and you will grind the compressor wheel into the intake cover and the turbine wheel into the NGV ruining them. Those 2 items alone will cost anywhere from $500.00-$1,200.00 to replace along with any other collateral damages. Or I have a better idea, pay the $300.00-$400.00 interval service fee when ever it is recommended (bearing change, cleaning, balancing, tune up) and keep a good reliable engine for many years!!
my .02
Dirk