I wonder how much it costs to have the bottom end looked at for corrosion. Does the 0-200 have a recurring AD for crank inspection?
Here is my experience, based upon a random sample size of one airplane: My engine was overhauled in 1976. It flew off and on (much more off than on) until I bought it in 2000 with 600+ hours. I put another 1000 hours on it until it needed an overhaul again.
Prior to my purchase the cylinders were removed, some valve work was done, new rings were installed along with new connecting rod bearings.
The design of the engine prohibits full crank inspection without disassembling the entire motor. The main bearing halves are part of each half of the crankcase, so bolting the two halves of the crankcase together is what retains the crankshaft.
However, removing cylinders allows one to make a pretty decent inspection of the interior. Not likely an inspection one could do as a "pre-buy", but not unreasonably expensive for peace-of-mind with a new purchase.
I haven't heard of any recurring AD's on the crankshaft.
