"Michael" wrote in message om...
] The downside is the maintenance. Unless you're planning to do a lot
of your own wrenching, stay away. Nothing is particularly
complicated, but everything is time consuming.

Nothing is particularly time consuming. Much of it is actually easier than the
Arrow. However, Navion's are different. The biggest problem is dealing
with an ignorant mechanic who won't spend the time to read the book or
call someone about Navion-specific issues. Airframe parts availability is
also not a major issue. The major parts problem, are as you alluded to,
the availability of engine/accessory parts for the older engines.

There are two kinds of
Navion hydralic systems - those that are maintained by people who
really understand them (a distinct minority among A&P's these days)
and those that leak constantly and are nothing but trouble.

I have no idea what the above statement is intended to mean. With the
exception of the master control valve (which most mechanics are probably
advised to send out for repairs), there is nothing odd about the Navion
hydraulic system. It's just a bunch of tubing. If it leaks, anywhere other
than the MCV, then it's just a fitting or actuator that needs attention, just
like any other hydraulic device (even your beloved Arrow). The MCV
leaks are readily apparent as pilot gets red stains on his right knee. I've
never had a problem with my hydraulic system and it's never been "maintained"
by any extraordinary means. There was a leak in the flap actuator when
I bought it which was easily fixed by a mechanic who'd never seen a Navion
before.