----[Please read http://ercoupers.com/disclaimer.htm before following any advice in this forum.]----At 08:25 AM 1/23/01 -0800, you wrote:
I am recently retired, have more time on my hands that I expected and am
considering restoring an Ercoupe.
Lucky You! Most retired persons are either too busy or too sick.
I have found a 1946 C/D, 90HP Ercoupe with both wings removed. It has been
stored inside for 17 years.
There are many "Coupes in a barn." Some are diamonds in the rough, others
are just rough.
Unfortunately, the engine was stored without proper prep and will require a
major overhaul. (new jugs, pistons, etc.) Because of corrosion there has
been recent major reconstruction of the aluminum under the seat and wing
spars. The reconstruction looks well done and was performed by a major firm
in Florida. I spent over an hour looking and could find no additional
corrosion,
Corrosion is the big killer.
Through a local Experimental Flying Club, I have found two certified
mechanics who are willing to help me restore the plane. I am not an aircraft
mechanic but have extensive experience working on turbine engines and have
been working in automotive research for over 40 years. Buying a certified
rebuilt engine is not out of the question. I am prepared to spend $10,000 to
$12,000, in addition to the initial cost over a two year period to restore
the plane. It would be imperative that all upgrades and safety standards be
complied to.
And if you log the time working on the plane, it counts towards your OWN
A&P. Check it out with your local Aircraft Maintenance Technican School.
My questions are:
1. Does $5500 sound like a reasonable price to pay for the plane in it's
present condition? It is possible that the seller would consider $5000 and
transport the plane (about 25 miles) to my shop.
Could be a bit high. Ask for terms. That way, the current owner shares
the risk of you not being able to restore it properly.
2. Is $12,000 a reasonable estimate to restore the plane to "like new"
condition with minimal instrumentation, assuming I do much of the work
myself?
And there will be plenty of that. Now, 12k restore + 5k purchase yields
17K. There could be a real good one out there NOW for that price.
3. Is doing the work myself with the two certified mechanics holding my
hand and keeping me "on track," reasonable or am I being overly optimistic?
Yes, but they will need something for their time. I assure you "coming by
on the weekends, or when you're not working" will not get the job done in
anything like reasonable time.
4. Would it be more cost effective to buy an already restored Ercoupe with
low hours, assuming one could be found?
Could be, Bill. Depends on if you'd rather fly than fix. IT TAKES A LOT
of time to restore any airplane.
Percy in Portland
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