REFLECTOR: Pre-Buy Checklist?

[Scott Baker]

Mechanical inspection

·         Preferably done by an independent, qualified inspector who is 
familiar with the construction of Velocity aircraft

·         Use Conditional Inspection checklist

·         Engine/propeller/accessories - review engine/propeller log books 
to determine age, history of maintenance, and compliance with manufacturer's 
AD's

·         Airframe log - review to determine if FAA required endorsements 
are in order; initial Conditional Inspection; Phase-1 fly-off successfully 
completed.  One can form judgments based upon logbook entries for 
maintenance/repairs (or lack thereof).

·         Inspection to determine if structural fiberglass lay-ups are 
present and the work was done correctly as per the Construction Manual. 
Same for flight controls and flight control surfaces.

·         Determine if avionics, flight instruments, engine instruments, and 
auto pilot equipment is working

·         This is by no means a comprehensive list.  There are many other 
items that factor into a purchase that go beyond the airworthiness of the 
aircraft.  Examples include the age and ongoing availability of equipment 
support; the condition of exterior paint and interior upholstery; 
craftsmanship and professional quality workmanship (i.e. a neatly installed 
electrical wiring system with schematic documents beats a 'spaghetti factory' 
without documentation).



Title search - determine if seller is authorized to transfer title



Lien search - determine if there are liens filed with the FAA or state 
agencies against the aircraft.  Note: a lien filed against the aircraft by a 
hangar owner for lack of paid rent will appear as a lien filed with the 
state (rather than on a federal level).



Aircraft documents - ensure these documents are provided with the aircraft

·         FAA Airworthiness certificate

·         Official Weight & Balance

·         FAA Aircraft Operating Limitations



Airworthiness certificate - ensure aircraft is licensed in the 
Experimental - Amateur Built category.  Aircraft licensed in some other 
Special Airworthiness category may severely limit your use of the aircraft 
or require repeated FAA inspections in order to operate the aircraft.



Flight test - Fly before you buy.  Does the aircraft deliver what you expect 
in regard to flight handling and performance?



Again, this is a short list of recommendations.

Best,

Scott B.





----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Kevin Baker" <flykb at verizon.net>
To: <reflector at awpi.com>
Sent: Friday, April 29, 2011 6:59 PM
Subject: REFLECTOR: Pre-Buy Checklist?


> Hi All,
> Anyone have a pre-buy checklist or if not.. any suggestions to add to one?
>
> Thanks
> Kevin
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