Also, should I get an "annual" inspection, or a "pre-purchase" inspection? The plane is not due for an annual until April.
Congrats on the making a decision to purchase, Tim. That is the first, and I believe the hardest, major step. I'll third the advice you already received from Ed and Gary about doing an annual. As far as the mechanic, my only suggestion is to find one that allows the owner to assist. I am a firm believer in the owner taking a hand in the maintenance of the aircraft. I can highly recommend an excellent mechanic down here in our neighborhood, but you will surely want to find somebody closer.
We have a number of folks across the state that like to get together from time to time, (Like this weekends Alvord Desert trip) If you would like, we can keep you informed of when we do some of these things. It would be great to have you join us from time to time.
Congrats again!
