3000+ Air frame hours- Some Questions and Observations
Posted: 06 May 2017, 11:25
A while ago I rolled over 3000 air frame hours, and it brings up some questions and observations.
I was wondering if anyone knows what the overhaul/refit cycle was for the B-17G in real life? I have never had any issues or problems with the flaps, ailerons, elevators, or rudder over the lifespan of this air frame so I am wondering if it is built into accusim that sooner or later it will notify me that my air frame is time expired and I will have to start from scratch again with an overhauled air frame.
I am also wondering about engine issues. Over the 3000+ operating hours, I have probably gone through approximately 25 or so engines. I have never had an engine fire in flight or on startup that I didn't purposely cause my self by leaving the cowl flaps shut and throttles on full in hot weather while experimenting to see the limits of accusim. I have never had any prop issues either.
I usually fly by the numbers, and take very good care of my aircraft. I do however regularly fly in extreme heat and extreme cold climates. I have flown around the world a couple of times taking in the Canadian and Russian Arctic, and Antarctica during the winter. Australia, Africa, South America, and Pacific Islands hopping in the summer. This might be a reason why I only average 500-600 hours per engine.
I would be interested if anyone could answer/comment on my questions and observations, and in what others have experienced with accusim.
Bill
I was wondering if anyone knows what the overhaul/refit cycle was for the B-17G in real life? I have never had any issues or problems with the flaps, ailerons, elevators, or rudder over the lifespan of this air frame so I am wondering if it is built into accusim that sooner or later it will notify me that my air frame is time expired and I will have to start from scratch again with an overhauled air frame.
I am also wondering about engine issues. Over the 3000+ operating hours, I have probably gone through approximately 25 or so engines. I have never had an engine fire in flight or on startup that I didn't purposely cause my self by leaving the cowl flaps shut and throttles on full in hot weather while experimenting to see the limits of accusim. I have never had any prop issues either.
I usually fly by the numbers, and take very good care of my aircraft. I do however regularly fly in extreme heat and extreme cold climates. I have flown around the world a couple of times taking in the Canadian and Russian Arctic, and Antarctica during the winter. Australia, Africa, South America, and Pacific Islands hopping in the summer. This might be a reason why I only average 500-600 hours per engine.
I would be interested if anyone could answer/comment on my questions and observations, and in what others have experienced with accusim.
Bill