Thanks to everyone for the counsel and insight on LSA qualifications and interpretations regarding 415C and C/D models. I know some folks were concerned about giving legal advice but I was just interested in getting opinions to help work through my decision to purchase. I have elected to buy the C/D because of numerous inputs.
I ordered the history on the a/c from OK City and talked to them. The a/c always was and is currently registered as a C/D. They encouraged me to talk to a local FSDO airworthiness inspector about a couple questionable documents I got from OK City a/c registry history (e.g., one registration application form , bill of sale, and inspection form from the same year that said D on it. All the rest of the documentation says C/D or doesn't include a model number on the form.) The FAA inspector was very helpful, looked up things in his computer and agreed I had a C/D model. The dataplate still says C/D, the airworthiness certificate says C/D and there are no 337's or log book entries indicating it was converted to a D, despite the noted references to D many years ago. W&B is 1260 but I am getting the 1320 STC. He also said conversions to D might have the C crossed out on some dataplates and to watch for that. He also said a few folks have been stung by not doing the due diligence. I am glad I did do my due diligence and thank all of you for your help. My suggestion is to get the aircraft registry info from OK City (about $10) before you buy. If you have questions about the documents you get contact the FSDO. Do a good pre-buy as well. Logbook reviews helped a lot of course. In 60 year old a/c there are bound to be some potential documentation snafus, get them worked out before the sale. Best regards, Rich
