Well, if I read the ads right they want about $220K for all four, which
averages to $55K each. Looking at a representative collection of asking
prices for Sixes of similar vintages (but far fewer airframe hours) prices
seem to run from around $80K to $120K. This suggests that the asking price
for these 4 overworked birds is at least rational, especially given that
they appear to be moderately well equipped (except no APs).

On airframes that old (in flight hours) just about everything that is likely
to wear out (e.g. hinges, control cables, landing gear components) probably
has worn out -- in some cases several times. If maintained to rigorous Part
135 standards, there is no reason why a 20,000-hr airplane should not be
airworthy. But I'd sure want an experienced mechanic look for corrosion and
for fatigue cracks in structural members.

Forget about cosmetics. These planes were obviously used to haul cargo (or
maybe skydivers). Paint and interior are probably solid "1"s on the 1 to 10
scale.

Also, remember that a 20,000 hr Part 135 airplane has gone through two
hundred 100 hr inspections. Everything that has to be removed and replaced
for such inspections is probably worn thin by now.

Just my idle ramblings.

-Elliott Drucker


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-Elliott Drucker