I wouldn't turn my worst enemy into the FAA.
The fact is, most of us are flying old airplanes. Lets face it, even the planes that most of us consider modern are in the 30 year old range. Most of them are less than perfect in many ways. If we held our mechanics responsible for every defect in our airplanes, we couldn't afford to pay our bill. Unless you are looking for an average annual inspection of $5,000.00 on your 150, lighten up on the mechanic. My experience is that most of the mechanics are very knowledgable and conciensous people. The more trouble the mechanics and FBO's have with the FAA, the fewer mechanics and FBO's we'll have to maintain our planes.
Remember, when you decide to turn a mechanic into the FAA, you are screwing with that persons ability to make a living.
I realize I'm preaching to the choir. Most of you have flown for as long or longer than I and certainly do not need my thoughts on this matter. It just really ticks me off to hear people going to the FAA on matters which could easily be handled between the people involved.
While the mechanic plays a key role in the safe operation of any plane, they cannot guarentee the safety of the machine. If the aircraft owners want to live in a perfect world, buy a new airplane and trade every other year.
The rest of us will pays our money and takes our chances.
