Rudy,
In any vocation there are good and bad craftsmen. Those that
take pride in what they do and those only out to make a buck.
I am sorry that your first encounter in aircraft buying has been
such a negative experiance. You did the right thing in getting a prebuy inspection.
It saved you lots of aggravation and $$$.
As far as what others here are feeling about your posts
and responce to the seller, I think you may have come accross
a little too strong with some of your comments.
I feel Gary (and others) are right. Your responce to the seller
should only have been Thank you but No thanks. I'll pass on this one.
Then explain the discrepancies that were found.
Airplane owners, no matter what shape the plane is in are as
passionate about there planes as you are about this issue.
I think, and someone correct me if I am wrong (ya like I need to ask for that!)
If an IA has signed off on an annual then the only people who can ground the plane
would be the owner, pilot or FAA.
If a mechanic could ground a plane because of a look see he preformed then
every one he looked at that he did not preform the work would be
unairworthy because "that's not the way I would have done that. I don't like it."
You asked:
If owners are not permitted to participate in the maintenance of their aircraft,
how are they to live up to the standards for maintaining the aircraft in airworthy condition?
Well If your mechanic won't let you at least watch and answer
your questions then I would find a new mechanic.

You stated the Vref value for this plane is $16,250.
Vref is for a plane in "average" condition.
This one is undoubtedly well below average. Sounds like there were many
red flags and maybe you didn't need to go as far into the
purchase process as you have.

Also, remember that there will always be things that even the
best mechanics will miss that will show up later. So plan your
budget for those things when you finaly do find the one you
just have to have.

Ron

Ron Stewart
N5282B
KSFZ


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