I’m about to purchase an early version of SR20 with a midlife engine, and I’m considering how to view the options I have. The engines of the two aircraft I have selected are both midway to TBO by hours, one already reached TBO by years.
Aircraft 1 has had a crankcase replacement, but has still an intime engine OH 2018 and 1200hours.
Aircraft 2 has same hours, but OH in 2014.
The broker of aircraft 1 argues that the repair of the crankcase is positive because: 1. The engine has been opened and any other concerns would have been addressed when doing such major repair. 2. The repair was done by highly reputable shop.
The broker is obviously biased to sell the aircraft.
Aircraft 2 has an old engine, but what exactly is going on inside might be less clear.
If I do a PPI + Boroscope inspection and oil analysis, which aircraft would you prefer? It would also be good to understand what you would consider dealbreaker outcomes of the above pre-buying checks.
I would be okay with some repairs in the next 1-2 years (around$10-20k on engine), but would refrain from the purchase if there is high probability of the need of full OH immediately.
How have the planes been flown? Training flights or cross country flights?
Training usually involves lots of bad landings. Repairs are expensive. If the nose gear collapses on a landing (after you bought it), you will need a new prop and an engine tear down. Plus at least 6 months down time. Plus a real ding on insurance in the future.
I would be way more concerned about the nose gear than the engine.
Many thanks for the advise. Aircraft 1 has been in flying club, but not sure if its directly been used for training. Is the nose gear collapse a common occurrence in SR20’s? I know aircraft 2 is indeed saying that they are replacing the nose gear but only as a preventative measure.