Tim, this in addition to the post I filed earlier today.
I think if the airplane has been flying for 30 years it's probably OK. I think you can use the damage history as a bargaining chip in negotiating the price. If you and your A&P think it's a good airplane and you can get the price down some I think you should go for it. When you sell the airplane you of course will not claim NDH, but level with the prospective buyer.
I have seen airplanes that were basket cases restored to good as new. Of course there is a stigma attached. If you can get a good enough price on the airplane now you don't have to get as much when you sell. And if the buyer is aware of the situation it may not be much of a deterrent. I think you're miffed because you felt you were blindsided.
George
