Lakeland, FL - April 12, 2005 - Lycoming Engines announced today the certification and implementation of its new valve-train roller tappet technology. Lycoming began proving these designs at last year's Reno Air Races and completed the FAA certification process in February. Lycoming, a leader in general aviation piston engines, began developing hydraulic-tappet technology in the late 1990s in an effort to increase horsepower and reduce camshaft friction.

Last September, Lycoming selected Delphi as its key production partner for roller tappets in general aviation. Delphi is a recognized leader in roller hydraulic valve lifters for automobiles.

"Implementation of roller tappets is the next step in a phased program of design enhancements to bring technology improvements that provide greater value to the customer with increased reliability and performance" stated Ian Walsh, vice president and general manger of Lycoming Engines.

Lycoming plans to make roller tappets available in the after-market beginning June 1, 2005.

Lycoming is an operating division of Textron's Avco Corporation subsidiary, specializing in manufacture and support of piston aircraft engines. Lycoming piston engines power more than half of the world's general aviation fleet -both rotary-wing and fixed-wing. Textron Inc. is a $10 billion multi-industry company with more than 44,000 employees in 40 countries. The company leverages its global network of businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services in industries such as aircraft, fastening systems, industrial products, industrial components and finance. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Jacobsen, Cessna Aircraft, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO and Greenlee, among others. More information is available at www.lycoming.textron.com.