Hello again.
My quest for a 152 continues. I think I have found one that meets all my requirements, but I thought I would ask this esteemed group for some opinions.
Here are the basics on the plane:
1981 152
8910 Total Time
350 SMOH
Avionics:
IFR King Avionics Dual VOR/Glide Slope
• Full King IFR Dual VOR/Glide Slope
• KX 155A with Glide Slope
• KNS-80 RNAV
• KY-196 Comm
• KT-75 Mode-C Transponder
• KMA-24 Audio Panel with Marker Beacons
Other:
• Precision Compass
• Newly refurbished seats
• New main tires
Additional Information:
• Last Annual Inspection Feb. 2007
• Last IFR certification Sep. 2005
• Professionally maintained
I went and looked at it last weekend, and I would say overall it is in pretty good shape, although it could use a little TLC. The carpet is in pretty bad shape, and the interior plastic panels are dirty, but otherwise in good shape (no cracks, etc.)
My main concerns are:
1. The paint is a little oxidized on the top surfaces. I'm not sure how this affects the value. The owner rates it as a 8/10, but I would call the paint more of a 6 or 7.
2. The nosegear strut shows a lot of corrosion on the chrome rod. I'm not sure how much longer before there are problems with this. What does it cost to replace one?
3. The intercom is a stand-alone box mounted between the rudder pedals. I sat in the passenger seat, and there was a very poor connection between us (lots of static, etc.). This could be just corroded electrical connections, or it could be something more expensive.
4. When we went for a flight, the tower told us he lost our Mode C information. The owner fiddled with the transponder, and the tower said everything was fine, but I wonder if there is something wrong with the transponder (intermittent problem, etc.).
Other than those minor items, it is in reasonable shape. I received the FAA CD on it, and all looks in order from there (no surprises). It was flipped in 1985, but completely repaired, and I didn't see any evidence of the repair visually or in the way it flied.
Of course, I will be having a complete pre-buy inspection done by a independant third party.
OK, knowing all this, he is asking $30k for it. Is that a fair price or not?
Once again, thanks for your insights.
