Lycoming Engines has announced an extension of the recommended Time Between Overhaul (TBO) for selected engines. The good news also applies to the Lycoming O-360-J2A engines that power Guimbal Cabri G2 helicopters.
Until now, the recommended time between overhauls was set at 2,200 hours, or 2,400 hours when the conditions for the extended interval were met. Newly manufactured engines and engines overhauled using genuine Lycoming parts can now reach up to 2,500 operating hours before the next overhaul.
This change is the result of long-term evaluation of operational data, endurance testing and in-service experience. For Cabri G2 operators, a longer TBO mainly means lower operating costs per flight hour, longer periods between scheduled overhauls, and higher helicopter availability while maintaining high standards of reliability and safety.
The extended interval applies only to engines that meet the conditions set by Lycoming, in particular new engines or engines overhauled using genuine parts and in accordance with the manufacturer's applicable service instructions.
At Lionheli.aero we welcome this change as another step towards more efficient operation of Guimbal Cabri G2 helicopters. The longer TBO interval gives operators greater flexibility in maintenance planning while helping to reduce total operating costs.