Most RV9’s are built equipped with o320 engines or better (and rightfully so), but occasionally I have seen some 9’s for sale with o235 equipped, and for a pretty low price. Would it be a super difficult task to upgrade engines? Or perhaps find a shop to do an upgrade for me? Of course, after paying for the o320, plus the labor hours of removing the old engine and installing the new, it could be financial disaster.
And I wouldn’t necessarily have the upgrade done immediately. If I got a very good deal, I may fly it for a few years, or perhaps even wait until the o235 needs an overhaul before doing the upgrade. I realize the rule of thumb is to buy the aircraft that’s already equipped with what you want, instead of upgrading. I also realize that swapping a different engine is NOT a small task, especially when changing brands (cont. to lyc., going to or from an auto engine, etc.)
And I wouldn’t necessarily have the upgrade done immediately. If I got a very good deal, I may fly it for a few years, or perhaps even wait until the o235 needs an overhaul before doing the upgrade. I realize the rule of thumb is to buy the aircraft that’s already equipped with what you want, instead of upgrading. I also realize that swapping a different engine is NOT a small task, especially when changing brands (cont. to lyc., going to or from an auto engine, etc.)