Originally Posted by
Big Pistons Forever
To put things in perspective the flying club in Canada that I belong to, has Transport Canada approval to run their C 172's ( 2000 hr TBO) to 3500 hrs. All the engines have made it with no problems. The key to success is regular maintenance and frequent use. The school airplanes typically will hit the 3500 hr mark in less than 5 years of use.
I agree, I'd happily fly a 3000hrs since TBO Lycoming over one that had done 250hrs over the last ten years! The high hours engine (if maintained to the appropriate schedule) will be most likely be in better condition.