Experimental repairs.. Can someone set me straight?

[Tram]

Hey guys-

I've always been under the impression per part 43; if you bought an experimental aircraft and DID NOT build it, this was essentially like purchasing a certified aircraft with regards to maintenance and repairs. As well as the condition inspection needing to be carrier out by a certified A&P.

Simple, preventative maintenance is basically all that is allowed, correct?

[Toobuilder]

Nope. Anyone or anything can work on an experimental.

[PCHunt]

Not correct. You might try searching the forum, extensively discussed. Look for posts by MEL.

Bottom line, Any Person, including you, can do any and all work on your airplane. The only thing you can't do, is sign off the annually required Condition Inspection. For that you need an A&P. No IA required.

You can repair, modify, add on, etc. Just make sure to read your Operating Limitations for how to put the plane back in service after major surgery.

[Don]

Michael is 100% correct. Anyone (competent or not) can work on an experimental aircraft.

The only thing you can't do is the annual condition inspection. To do that you need a Repairman's Certificate (poorly named, since anyone can repair anything) and that requires you to have built the plane (or some significant part of it).

[Tram]

Ok. Good to know.

Thanks for the quick responses guys.

[FORANE]

Originally Posted by Tram

Hey guys-

I've always been under the impression per part 43; if you bought an experimental aircraft and DID NOT build it, this was essentially like purchasing a certified aircraft with regards to maintenance and repairs. As well as the condition inspection needing to be carrier out by a certified A&P.

Simple, preventative maintenance is basically all that is allowed, correct?

Incorrect.
Read the article in the link below as it sums up the topic well:
http://www.wanttaja.com/avlinks/MAINT.HTM

[Geico266]

Originally Posted by Tram

So, I can legally repair damage and do my own condition inspections?

Would I need an A&P or IA to sign off this work?

Please re-read the posts in response to your question. There is your answer, it is good sound advice.

[FORANE]

Originally Posted by Tram

So, I can legally repair damage and do my own condition inspections?

Would I need an A&P or IA to sign off this work?

You may repair damage. You may sign off your own repairs.
You may not do your condition inspection unless you hold repairmans cert or A&P.

[Arlen]

Here's a link to this info from the EAA Government Programs Office (agreeing with the advice offered above):

http://www.wanttaja.com/avlinks/MAINT.HTM

[Tram]

Originally Posted by Geico266

Please re-read the posts in response to your question. There is your answer, it is good sound advice.

Terrible internet + a very quick user base = posts behind the times.

Thanks..