Jump to content

Recommended Posts

Posted

Hi Canardiens,

 

I'm in the process of buying a COZY 3, with a O235 engine. Only need to do the inspection of the aircraft and fly it!

 

Can anybody help me with a list of the things to be checked on a "pre-purchase" inspection for the COZY 3?

 

Any specific weak points I should know about?

 

All info is more than welcome, but I'm a bit in a hurry...leaving in 24hrs or so!

 

So, if you guys can help me, please mail: [email protected]

 

Thanks and a Happy 2003 to all of you,

 

COZYLOVER

Flying was my first love and it will be my last one!

Posted

I sent this via email, but then thought that it might be a thread of interest to others considering buying a used Cozy. No doubt others can add to my list of things to look for.

 

The ideal would be to take an experienced composite builder (or better still, a Cozy flyer) with you on the inspection. If you have the opportunity, take some digital pictures and post them for comments. If this is not possible, then here are a few things to look out for, most of which will be obvious.

 

Bottom line: If it flys well, looks good and the price is right, you'll probably love it.

 

You might also call Nat Puffer (designer) at 480-981-6401. Get the serial number. Nat might know the history of the airplane. He may also be able to point you to a nearby builder who can look at it for you.

 

Items to check:

 

 

Finish:

How straight are the trailing edges of wings, elevator, rudders

How smooth is the finish - look for minor bumps and dips in the paint

Look particularly around the winglet / wing attach, strake / fuselage join

How even and smooth is the wing leading edge?

 

Structure:

Lift the wings. Any play?

Lift the canard. Any play?

Look at the canard attach tabs

Main wheel strut near the wheels - any sign of heat?

condition of prop

look at aileron / elevator gap - 1/8 inch?

elevator balance should be checked at some point (not trivial on a casual inspection)

any sign of structural repairs?

 

Controls:

Any lag?

any side movement of bearings in wing roots?

 

Equipment:

Nose Retract - manual or auto. If manual, has it been reversed

Panel - age of radios etc.

 

Wiring:

How neat is it

type of connections

 

Modifications from plans:

Ask the owner to point out anything that isnt per plans

 

Engine:

total time since last overhaul

who did the last overhaul

How professional does the installation look?

Any automotive hoses / hose clips?

ignition system - mags? mag drop?

condition of oil?

 

Performance:

what is the gross weight?

Take off roll

gals / hr at cruise

max speed

landing speed

brakes - stopping capability

are the elevators in trail during cruise?

are the rudders in trail when at rest?

are the ailerons even and in trail in cruise?

I can be reached on the "other" forum http://canardaviationforum.dmt.net

Join the conversation

You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.

Guest
Reply to this topic...

×   Pasted as rich text.   Paste as plain text instead

  Only 75 emoji are allowed.

×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.

×
×
  • Create New...

Important Information