See How Easily You Can Get Used Ultralight Aircraft
OK, so you are not so keen on building your airplane from a kit yourself, are you? But the new aircraft can be a bit expensive, even if they are ultralights. So it is a wise decision to consider buying an used ultralight aircraft and save money and time. But what should you know before going ahead? Here I am to share what I know.
The Price
The price of the used aircraft - pretty obvious - must be lower than the price of a new one. But how much? Depending on how many years the airplane is used and how it has been kept, you'll buy your machine for 30% - 80% of the price of new one.
If you take a look at some classifieds (for example here or there) you will see ultralights starting at $5,000 - $6,000 (and exceeding $50,000 of course) and flex-wings for as low as $3,000 - $4,000. Now that is really cheap. You just need to find the right deal for you and to ensure what you are buying is good enough.
Was it hangared
This is the second question you should ask. Obviously an ultralight aircraft which has not been kept in hangar would be much more damaged by the weather, rain or snow. A well hangared airplane can be in good condition even 50 years after the date it was built.
The fuselage
Next, take a look at the fuselage. Does it look ok, do you see any wear and tear. It's easy to notice wear around the connections with the wings, the areas next to the moving parts and the wheels.
The engine
The engine is the hearth of your ultralight aircraft. You don't want to buy it with damaged engine. The engine must be started after draining and cleaning the complete fuel system. If you miss to do that you can seriously damage the propulsion system - so you must check if there is a fuel left in carburateur.
Never ever consider having fuel in the used airplane as advantage - you will have to empty it and clean the engine.
The wings
Don't forget them. Check the colors - the fabric should not have significant differences. This is not because of cosmetic concerns - the different colored areas usually are decayed or corrupt. The decayed fabric will have to be replaced and this will cost you a lot.
Check also the places where the wings connect with the fuselage - any tears may cost you much more than money!
The parachutes
Finally, when buying used ultralight aircraft you must check the parachutes. If there are none or they are more than 5 years old, you will have to buy new. Add this to the costs.
In addition to all said above, you have to check any other moving parts for corrosion. Don't underestimate this, as it could lead to unpleasant extra costs or danger.
There are really a lot of things to be careful for. If you are seriously planning to buy used airplane, you may want to get Illustrated Buyer's Guide to Used Airplanes
If you thoughtfully check the airplane for various problems you can also end up with lower price. Once made a good deal, you'll hopefully realize that you have saved a lot of money from buying a new aircraft and a lot of time which would go in building it from a kit.
Sources and More Information
You may want also to check the following links for more details:
- What to Check in a Used Aircraft For Sale
- Buying An Aircraft
- Ultralight aircraft buying tips, how to buy a used not abused ultralight.
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