unicate wrote:
Anyone here know any pluses or minuses about them? Specifics (other than
all the usual every-airplane items) to look at on pre-buys?

Thanks in advance.


I have a '76, re-engined, painted and paneled through the mid-90's.

Plenty of excellent info @ www.beecheroclub.org. A membership might be
a great value to help investigate the plane.

My comments:

Positives:
- roomy
- two cabin doors
- STRONG and durable - twice the G ratings of a PA28, can even be spin-legal
- very durable landing gear
- great view out the front and down to the sides
- many examples were never basic trainers or FBO rentals
- less expensive than some comparables
- easy to fly

Minuses:
- durable landing gear uncomfortable if "donuts" need replacement
- slightly slower than comparable 180 HP aircraft (it's wider! G)
- not as many mods available as Piper & Cessna products.
- no height adjustment in seats
- slightly nose heavy (actually a positive if you carry back seat pax often)
- slightly less usable load than comparable planes

Neutral points:
- slightly higher sink rate than comparibles (better in x-wind, not as
good in glide)
- some switches and gauges hard to use from right seat
- won't turn on the ground without brakes
- flap retraction is much more necessary than some planes for good braking


I'd buy mine again, it's been a great plane.