To Whom it may concern (re: Lyc vs TCM Myths)

[GAHorn]

I'm sorry that I lost your contact info (whoever it was that left the msg on my voice mail).
But whoever it was, (and with the hopes this doesn't stir things up again), the question you asked about Lyc VS TCM reliability myths was addressed in The TBO Advisor, Nov-Dec '98 Issue, pgs 17-18.
The statement they made was:
"Myth: Lycoming engines are more reliable than Continental engines.
Reality: Lycoming engines, because they use hollow
exhaust valves, are several times more likely to suffer valve
sticking or broken valves than Continental engines (which use solid-stemmed valves). Lycoming engines are also much more
likely to experience camshaft wear problems than Continental
engines."
" Myth: The Lycoming O-320-H is the only Lycoming
engine with a significant history of cam and lifter
problems.
Reality: Actually, you can experience cam lobe scuffing
and/or lifter spalling with almost any engine (and certainly in
any Lycoming model). The O-360-E uses the same cam and
lifter design as the O-320-H and is subject to the same
concerns. Other Lycoming models with a higher-than-average
cam scuffing rate include the ‘541’ series (Duke and P-Navajo)
and the IO-720 series, although it is certainly possible to have
cam scuffing in other models (even the non-H O-320s) as well."