For those who didn’t have the opportunity to read the April Jumpseat column, or for those who don’t recall, I conveyed a tale of woe regarding my airplane-buying experience. It had turned into a horror story. The 1972 Piper Arrow II I had purchased became a small nightmare when it was discovered by my observant mechanic friend that a prior repair to the gear-well area of the right wing was coming apart.
Jumpseat: Damage History, Part 2
Key Takeaways:
- The author's purchase of a used Piper Arrow II quickly uncovered a critical, improperly repaired structural issue in the right wing, necessitating a costly replacement despite an initial annual inspection.
- Subsequent efforts to improve the aircraft, including a full repaint, revealed further unexpected and expensive problems, such as corroded fuel tanks requiring refurbishment.
- Following these repairs, the plane developed severe engine oil leaks, culminating in the discovery of a cracked engine case that required another major, costly repair.
- The entire experience highlights the continuous, unpredictable, and significant financial challenges ("Spend more!") associated with owning and maintaining an older aircraft.
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