Originally Posted by
block30
First, I am sorry to hear this!
Not to take away from the personal loss, but what is the reliability on the engines? According to what I can find, I see the 404 runs the Continental GTSIO-520. I also believe that the 421 runs that engine. I have twin Cessna time, but not the 404 or 421 (which I would really love to have a crack at flying), nor do I have geared engine experience.
The GTSIO-520 is no easier nor more difficult to operate than any other Continental piston engine. Just like any other piston engine, however, they're subject to failure.