Buying a used C-85

[SteveR]

I found a C-85 that was last overhauled in 1959, run for 500 hours, then put in a museum. An A&P disassembled, cleaned, and inspected the engine last year for the family of the deceased prior owner, and is now selling the engine for them. It has new gaskets, paint, new mags, etc., and the price is $8,500. It was run 3.2 hours recently, and has compressions in the low-mid 70s. Would you buy this engine? I know nothing of the A&P.

I had a 1969 overhauled A-75 in my Pietenpol, and I flew behind it for 500 flawless hours.

I’m interested in any thoughts.

Thanks!

[otrcman]

Re: Buying a used C-85

I guess it all depends on what the A&P did and what records he kept. Is this guy an experienced small engine guy who documented his inspection of the engine internals ? Are there any yellow tags with the job ? Is there a detailed signoff in the engine log showing exactly what was found and what was done ? Are there prior logs ?

As an A&P myself, I think I can say that the license means nothing by itself. You need to know what was found and what was done.

Dick

[Ragwing nut]

Re: Buying a used C-85

what was idle oil pressure hot?

[flyguy]

Re: Buying a used C-85

Investigate the reputation of the guy who did the "rebuild."