these engines are very tough. if I was contemplating a whole new engine, I'd be running this one till it dies (or gets horrifically worse) and then get the new engine.
I built that same B-17 kit using that same diorama page as my inspiration. I even embedded some plastic from the tail into my left thumb because I didn't really know what I was doing with an exacto and candle. still in my thumb today. I should have that model in a box somewhere. can't imagine I would have pitched it.