Comparisons between Various JetRanger and LongRanger models
birrddog: Perhaps a good place to start would be getting hold of the 'Product Data' books for each model you're considering. These are available from the Bell website (for current models only) and for the others you'll have to ask around for, your local Bell CSR and CSF will help you with this. These books have a wealth of information in them and will certainly get started.
If you're thinking of purchasing more than one of the 206 Series keep in mind that there is very little commonality in parts between the JetRanger and LongRanger and this includes the special tooling, particularly with the engines. Of course things like hardware are common and also avionics if you select carefully. However, if you have a JetRanger and a LongRanger you'll find yourself having to stock airframe and engine items for both types.
There are no real maintenance issues with either model and any reasonably competant mechanic will have no difficulty with them. Perhaps the only bugbear is accessibility to the rotor brake on the LongRanger otherwise they're fine.
Similarly, pilots have no difficulties crossing-over between models and perhaps the only thing they'll notice is the slight twitch at +/- 91 knots (increasing) in the LongRanger when the vertical fin effectiveness overcomes the lower-speed effectiveness of the auxiliary fins (on the ends of the horizontal stabilizer). Perhaps the most important thing a pilot has to remember in a LongRanger is to pull the L/H fuel boost pump circuit breaker after every flight - regardless of the battery switch position.
Oh, and one more thing, if the low-level fuel caution light illuminates in a LongRanger with an apparant ample amount of fuel indicated, believe the light NOT the guage.