SSD
I agree that the Gipsy is as reliable as the Lycoming when properly maintained ........ The problem is that it takes twice as much labour to do so add to this the lack of new parts and you have a mix that is ........ Expensive !
To compare the O-360 and Gipsy major, a Quality overhaul by the likes of Nicolson McClarren of the O-360 will cost IRO £15 K, Vintech are the quality option for the Gipsy Major and you are unlikely to get charged any less than £30K.
The O-360 is likely to go to about 1000 hours untill a cylinder change is required ( thanks to some excellent work by the BGA on engine management ) and then go to the 2000 hour TBO may be further on extension.
Do you honestly think you a Gipsy to 1000 hours with no cylinder work ? And then go on to to 2000 hours without further work ?
I would guess that using a gipsy rather than a Lycoming to tow gliders would add a minimum of £3-4 to each aero tow and that is before we get into the extra down time for maintenance of the Gipsy.
Ask your average glider pilot to pay extra to be dragged into the air by an aircraft with sole ( sorry soul) and all you will get is a big line of gliders behind the aircraft with the Lycoming engine.
Last edited by A and C; 24th Nov 2014 at 15:10.