Old vs newer 250/260

[cmdrspeed]

[Zach Grant L1011jock]

Lots of issues here. Biggest factor on engine time is usage. A 400 hr engine OH 20 years ago is about as good as an 1800 hr engine oh'd 7 years ago. All Comanches are pretty much the same airframe, and many have been modded to the point that model year is almost irrelevent. The biggest item is the early airplanes didn't have the aux tanks so the 250 range was a bit limited with the 60gal tanks. This is remedied very easily with those airplane with tiptanks having the same capacity as those post '62 aircraft with factory aux tanks. I own a '59 180, don't need or miss toe brakes (cant turn any tighter with them, than without, and they actually cause unecessary stress to the gear legs) and have modified it with all the speed mods as well as new panel and interior. It always fools those not in the know. They think it is a recent build airplane. Model year on Comanches is a blurred subject as it means very little these days. A late model can be unimproved where an early model may be highly modified to the point of a new airplane. I know which one I'd want! In 1972 the primary accounting aid was still Burroughs adding machines....and I wasn't born yet...sorry

-Zach

[Kristin Winter]

While this is not a question you asked, I would caution that condition is everything, and that it takes a Comanche savvy mechanic/pilot to really be able to perform a proper pre-purchase inspection. Beware the mechanic who says that he/she has worked on them for years. We keep seeing Comanches that have been maintained improperly for years. When it comes time for a pre-purchase inspection, post here and you will get some names of people who can help you out.

[David Pyle]

Commander Speed,

Kristin is correct. However your questions suggest you have not decided what would be best for you. There are trade-offs and compromises in the selection of these older airplanes. Regardless of past use and maintenance the market price will be more dependent on engine time because of today's overhaul cost. IMO avionics are secondary and should relate to your pilot experience and flying need. Budget for upgrades. There are many choices and technology keeps changing. A question I would ask is how you will use your Comanche, what is your purchase timetable and budget. Start with the basics.

P.S. Sunday...cmdrspeed responded. Turns out I have been leading him astray for sometime. He knows exactly what he wants but can't find it. There are fewer single engine Comanches for sale than there have been in the recent past.