Just clicked over 700 hours on the '05 (purchased at the end of June 2005).

So far all is good and the 496 is running perfectly.

Mine seems to do vey well too (knock on wood). The only thing that has happened is the anit-freeze hose falling off while running.

The only problem Jim has is idler pulleys, right Jim?

About 75 hours average for me. Got about 45 hours this season so far. Did 11 hours on an extended weekend on the Rhine.

Yep, very true. Been through a few now! And, ever since the first day we have always had a phone, charged handheld and a spare idler!

We just got back in from a run to the Fish House. We/I have been out a lot lately - It's been a pretty nice summer so far (besides that rainy two-week period). I have got some serious catching up to do on the preventive maintenance (again) as we continue to rack up the hrs! It's all worth it though... although we may being drilling for our own oil in Estero Bay. I'll let you know if we come up with any!