Piper Aztec

[ET]

I have been flying for over twenty-five years but always using other than my own plane. I now have my own small business and require the use of a small twin on a frequent basis. I now own a Piper Aztec (1967) and because this is my first ownership, I could use some good suggestions and guidelines on the do's and don'ts of ownership. Suggestions on the best way to work with the FBO in setting up maintenance schedules etc. - in other words what is the normal methodology common to these types of issues.

Thanks,

ET

[TLH]

ET
The thing with aircraft is that they cost money (not the first time you have heard that I'm sure) but once you have accepted that simply but true fact you can move on to the real issue. How much am I willing to spend to maintain and possibily improve my current aircraft. Lets face it certain things have to happen to meet the minimums for the FAR's (annuals, 100hrs(135 ops) etc.) and the fuel is another fixed cost that can be somewhat planned for. Replacing bad parts or having malfunctioning parts repaired is the unexpected. Find a FBO/Mechanic that is willing to outline a program for overhauling you high time componants prior to them failing (mags, alternators, starters, etc.). Before a component fails you are in control of when to spend the money after a component fails it's in control. Outline your goal and set your maintenance plan up with the help of an A&P to meet that goal. Lets face it it costs money to operate an aircraft and in business time is money. You have allready put a value on your time with the purchase of an aircraft. Now put a value on the reliability of that time saving investment.