"ContestID67" wrote in message
ups.com...
I have received several letters over the last year from people
interested in purchasing my glider. I was wondering if this is common
or rare? I'd like to think it rare and that I own a highly desireable
and marketable glider.

I also wonder if it is some type of scam. The letter's content and
other small detals makes them seem like genuine enquiries.

I always reply back to the author with a nicely worded, "Thanks but no
thanks. I'll contact you if I change my mind." Often I get back a
response which clearly is from a glider pilot.

What is your experience?

John "67R"


John,

About 12 years ago I was ready to purchase my first sailplane. Being new to
the sport the local group of pilots recommended that I purchase a Ka-6. A
mass mailing was sent to all owners west of the Appalachian Mountains. As a
result I found a nice Ka-6E at a reasonable price located in Kentucky.
(http://www.soaridaho.com/photogallery/valley/Ka-6E.jpg --
http://www.soaridaho.com/photogaller...with_Ka-6E.jpg)

It was November the Bronco II was readied for the trip and off I went. The
trip to East was a non-event; however, returning home was a different story.
First off, the trailer didn't track well and the Bronco II's short wheel
base didn't help the situation.. Then came a massive row of thunder storms
complete with tornados. Once west of the Mississippi River all was well
until I reached Wyoming. The first winter snow storm hit closing I-80.
Luck was with me, I was able to find a motel room for the night. The next
day about noon I-80 was open (chains required.); however, a high wind
warning still in effect. I chained all four wheels of the Bronco II and
headed west.

The wind wasn't bad as I left Laramie; however, it got stronger, and
stronger as I approached Elk Mountain. As the winds increased it was
necessary to drive with the right wheels on the unplowed shoulder in order
to maintain control of the trailer. I took my time and threaded my way
around and between several overturned "18 wheelers." About 20 miles west of
the summit the winds settled down. The chains were removed at Rawlins and
the rest of the trip to Nampa was uneventful.

Back to the subject line -- For a person looking for a specific make and
model, a mass mailing from the FAA database is worth the effort. If your
enquiries contain specific questions relating to your sailplane, I would
consider them genuine. However, the advice Tim offers on the Wings and
Wheels website should be taken seriously.
(http://www.wingsandwheels.com:80/wantads1.htm)

Wayne
HP-14 "6F"
http://www.soaridaho.com/