Don't be an idiot.

[DNeufeld]

I just bought a plane, and like the genius I sometimes like to think I am, I did my research AFTER dropping a massive pile of money into a shiny "new" toy.

I foolishly thought that buying a "low time" plane is the bee's knees. Today, I learned that "low time" is great if it's also "low years." This plane has about 200 hours on it, but it was built in 2014. The engine was last overhauled in 1982. The prop was made in 2003 and first installed in 2013. I am now the proud owner of an overpriced plane in need of at least $35k in overhauls.

Don't be like me. Learn about what TBO really means before you buy an airplane.

 

[DNeufeld]

To start, be careful who you listen to. A few years ago I helped a friend sell an RV3 that had been sitting for over 5 years in a hangar. When I advertised, a few here were badmouthing saying the engine was junk. Being an engine guy I knew better. We oil fogged the engine before starting and it checked out fine. I recently ran into the new owner and it's doing great 200 hours later.

The foolish thing to do would be to condemn the engine and prop by the numbers. A lot of times proven parts are better than new.