Buying and Exporting a Skymaster

johnnyfalcon · #1 06-30-13, 08:03 PM

Thanks for the pronto reply and the information :-)

hharney · #2 07-01-13, 01:01 PM

Contact Clamback & Hennessy in Sydney, AU
They will ferry a Skymaster for you from the USA to your location

Check for the country code but number is 97921022 ask for Aminta

Are there specifics in the P model you are looking for? Year, Model, Equip, Mods ???

johnnyfalcon · #3 07-01-13, 04:06 PM

Hi Herb,

Thanks for your input. Do you consider ferrying to NZ first then doing the SIDs a better option?

I'm considering all years of P models. I don't know that there are any significant differences. I considered all turbo models of 337 initially but decided upon pressurized. It needs to be IFR-ready. Intercooled is desirable? I'd prefer engines with good times remaining rather than the inconvenience of overhauling. I have wondered about the significance of climate control in the cabin. How do the pilots of the non-airconditioned airframes manage on hot days?

All observations welcome.

johnnyfalcon · #4 07-01-13, 07:12 PM

Thanks Frank. I thought there was another relatively minor change after the 1973 model too. But, after all the reading I've been doing, I can't remember what it was...

123 gallons equals about 4.5 hours? NZ isn't very big... (in case you've not heard of it!)

SkyMac · #5 07-03-13, 08:22 AM

Hi Johnny

If I could suggest some additional thought around the cost of the ferry, including the installation of the additional ferry tanks, associated plumbing, ferry pilot and fuel etc Vs dissasembly and shipping via a 40ft container.

I did this 3 years ago and my decision was to dissasemble and ship down under. Looking at the SID's for the 337G (Herb was a great help) my view was that the cost and potential for damage to the aircraft is significant, why spend the money to fly it out only then to pull it appart to do the SID's. My suggestion would be to pull it appart in the US and then do the SID's in NZ and put it back together at home base, this way you can also control the reassembly.

Give you some figures to ponder on.

*Feb 2010 Dissasembly and packing cost cost $4800 (3 guys, 2 days and 16hrs travel time for each, no one local with the experience on a 337)
*Feb 2010 Shipping 40ft container (Direct to LA to Melbourne) $5800

Now I can't give you the assembly cost as I have not made it that far yet, allthough we are getting close, but we are estimating approx $16000 to completed the assembly and provide the CASA CoA and back to IFR.

As the aircraft is appart I will carry out the eddy current and visual inspection of all specified components, this has been quoted as $800 to have this done. So again if the aircraft is appart it is easier and less costly.

As mentioned these are just what I did based on my circumstances and the project I took on.

Almost 800hrs of labour, hundreds of new nuts, bolts and washers, new hydraulic lines, new paint, complete new interior, lost count of the new stainless screws and we are just about to remove all hydraulic actuators for a refurb, not to mention brakes, bearings, all cables and even down to the aileron, rudder and elevator bearings - yes I am still married!

What can I say, you either love them (337's) or you don't.

There are plenty of bargins out there, but be sure in what your getting as the boys are right, hidden cost's will get you every time, maintanence and calander time on componenets are crucial. Unless your doing what I am and that is treat everything as expired and in need of replacing or overhaul (engines and props excluded) it can be a costly excercise.

Anyway enough of the waffle, good luck with finding the right bird for you and I am sure what ever the choice in ferry or shipping it will be the right one for you.

Dave

Ernie Martin · #6 07-03-13, 11:33 AM

Dave's suggestion seems sensible and may indeed be the best option. I would, however, explore having the disassembly, SIDs, upgradings (hydraulic lines, interior, new fasteners, bearings, cables, refurb hydraulic actuators and brakes, etc.) and packing done by Don Nieser at Commodore. He's done it before for 337s going to Australia or NZ, knows 337s better than anyone, and many of these upgradings might be much cheaper done in the U.S. It's worth comparing the two options.

Ernie

hharney · #7 07-03-13, 12:43 PM

I like Dave's suggestions and Ernie is correct there may be some items better sourced here in the USA. I agree working with someone that has done this before takes all the questions out of the picture. Don's knowledge is worth a lot in these kind of arrangements.

Now as far as finding the right airframe I think you have to come over and kick the tires yourself. Start by listing the planes that meet your criteria and then by process of elimination select the best of the best. Then come over and make your choice.

If any of us on this message board can help that process of elimination please feel free to call on us. I say that for all the owners on this board as we cover the country and can visit a plane for you in our area. There are lots of choices but only one that meets your personal needs. Let me know where I can help.

Check all the sources; controller, ASO, Trade a plane, Barnstormers, Skymaster Center, Commodore Aero, and there are some not listed but for sale. Those not listed may be referrals from us on the board.

Good luck and Cheers