In article ,
"Jim Carter" wrote:

What should a Cessna / Piper / Commander driver look out for on the original
'47 BE35 (and I don't mean performance wise)? Where are some of the corners
to be avoided? What special attention needs to be paid to the airframe? I'm
looking at the ABS site now, but could use some additional input.

1. The original, "straight 35" had a welded-tube center section, which
needs regular Zyglo or magnetic inspection. The later A-35s and up had a
sheet metal center section.

2. The magnesium ailerons, flaps and ruddervators are prone to corrosion
and need special care when refinishing.

3. It is getting hard (and expensive) to find parts for the E-185 (and
E-225) Continentals.

4. The original Beech electric prop is very expensive to overhaul. Parts
are made of unobtanium.