Engine On Condition
I am getting within 200 hours of needing a major overhaul of the O-300 in my 172H used for private ops.
The engine is running very well, burning little oil, making rated power, good compressions etc, so I am loath to spend $20,000 pulling it apart simply because it has hit the magic 1,800 hour mark.
I know that the engine can run 'on-condition' beyond TBO however what are the practicalities of getting a LAME to sign off an annual inspection with an engine past TBO?
How long will a LAME continue to sign off a timex engine, 10% 20% beyond TBO, or indefinately while the engine is running well?
Where do I really stand on 'on-condition' operations?
I am aware of the Mike Busch experience in the US with running his C310 to 800 hours past TBO however he is an AI and can sign out his own engines. What can I expect here in Australia?