sometimes it is a matter of incomplete paperwork or no paperwork filed by
the lender to the FAA to release a lien.

I found a glider with the same problem, a lien more than 25 years old that
was not cleared. (Thanx AOPA) Luckily I was able to find the original bank
based on the lien papers that AOPA found and it was still at the same
address and phone number although it had changed names a few times over the
years. I spoke directly (long distance) with the loan officer and explained
the dilemma. I sent him the FAA Forms, he signed them and sent the ORIGINALS
to the FAA and the copy to me. The lien was released and we received notice
that the title was clear.

A mechanics lien would have been tougher.

THEN we went and bought the glider.

Trying to do that after buying the glider is risk on your part. Not a good
idea. And without a clear title you may not be able to get a loan.

BT

"Michael Horowitz" wrote in message
...

I located a plane I'd like to buy; unfortunately somewhere along the
way the FAA didn't get some paperwork and the current owner didn't get
clear title.
Is there anything I can do to 'buy' the a/c and start working on it,
or do I have to sit on my hands? - Mike