Joseph asked;

Putting the separate engine and prop problems aside, are you otherwise happy with the performance of the combination MT4 blade and TSIO 550E?

Thanks for your input

Joseph Neustein, MD

 

 

Yes, on the whole I am happy with this combination. The MT 4 blade is 40 lbs lighter than the Hartzell 3 blade they were selling at that time. It accelerated better on the runway and climbed better and I was told only 1 or 2 kts slower in cruise. Later Hartzell came out with the blended airfoil 3 blade that is faster and climbs about the same. Also I like the higher frequencies of a 4 blade which makes a smoother sound in the cabin.

The engine is a mixed bag. You can find folks that have not had any problems with both Lyc. and Continental. I haven't talked to anyone with a V8 that hasn't had there share of problems. The school is still out with the Walter and Garrett as to what the lack of problems are. I look forward to some honest reporting. That said, I'm very disappointed in the TSIO-550E that I have, with way too many problems form a NEW engine.

I have 1590 hrs on my A36 IO-520 with only one valve repair on one cylinder. A close friend has the IO-550 in his A36 and it went to TBO, was overhauled and is at 1400 hrs the second time with only two cylinders repaired.

So bottom line is, I would do it the same again and take my chances.