20 year old new Lycoming 320 engine?

[mikefox]

How would one go about determining if an engine that was purchased new and never started is still good presuming it was in a hanger the whole time?

 

[AN23]

Really only one way and that's to pull a cylinder and check the cam and tappets. Boroscope each cylinder and check for corrosion especially on the bottom (as it sits) as this is where condensation will sit after it forms. Then remember, all of the seals and gaskets are twenty years old.

 

[Jpm757]

Is it vacuum bagged? Some time ago Lycoming started cocooning the engines in a foam covered thick plastic bag. If the engine was stored in a dry climate, never rotated and still sealed, chances are it's OK. I don't know if the owner would be too keen on you pulling a jug on a new engine before you buy it. That engine 20 years ago from Van's was probably about 18K, given that, if the engine can be had for that or less, than I think you can't get hurt.

 

[AN23]

Just know, if it does turn out to be corroded and you didn't do the due diligence, an IRAN at a reputable shop with cam, tappets, cylinder reconditioning, etc, is $20k plus.