Buying and Exporting a Skymaster

[hharney]

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

[johnnyfalcon]

Thanks Amigos,

Great observations, and good to hear from a fellow Australasian who's 'done it all before'. I'm not frightened by having to do what is necessary to get the bird up to scratch, but I don't plan on the 'whole 9 yards' approach either. There's a time factor in this for me too. The right aeroplane needs to be close to ready-for-duty as possible.

This venture also has a sentimental element. As Dave eloquently put it: "You either love them or you don't". I see this as preserving the future of a great aircraft as well as meeting my business needs.

Your suggestions corroborate the efforts I've put in already and I value your advice and support too, watch out, you just might get a call from me...

Cheers

Johnny

[SkyMac]

Hi Johhny

I can assure you those involved in this forum will be a great asset to you when it comes to anything about buying, owning & operating a Skymaster.

I agree the whole 9 yards that I am doing (I deliberately sourced a project to do just this) is not for everyone and purchasing the right bird is crucial so you don't end up in that situation.

One more thing as a heads up, during my search I came across many who were prepared to dissasemble and ship the aircraft, but they kept referring to the need to ensure it had a full annual including W&B recheck and Pitot tube certification etc (going on memory guys) so that an export certificate could be provided before it was pulled apart, I heard this more than a dozen times.

Infact when I delved into the situation with CASA and the FAA, all that is required is a current manufactures CoA in the aircraft and transfer documentation from the seller as you will need to de-register the aircraft with the FAA. I did this a week after the plane arrived in Aus.

Don't fall into the trap of needing an export certificate, I am sure NZ obtains a lot of guidance from CASA for their regulations.

I have all my purchase, export, shipping and assocaited information so if I can be of any further assistance let me know.


Dave

Ps: Guys almost finished the tail, just need to replace the pins in the elevator arms, then re-assemble the rear, aim is for this weekend - any guidance on removing the pins?

[johnnyfalcon]

Cheers Dave, that's really helpful information. That wee pic gives a glimpse of what promises to be a good looking ship! Well done!