RE: os engines
Hey GLFlyer...
you resurrected a 2 year old thread, and have asked FHHuber for input. You will find that FHHuber is no longer able to respond.
As for engines, I think it is safe to say that the engine;s life expectancy has more to do with the care given to the engine than it's construction process and brand. Even the cheap engines like the LA series are far more durable than people give credit for, and they fill a critical void in the engine spectrum.
gus