I'm back, after a failed look at an M20F in Hartford, my search has lead me to a 1977 M20J (N82KL) in Huntington, WV. Unlike my last couple of candidates this one had zero red flags, and the in person visit went very well. So, now looking for a prebuy guy. The plane is due for annual next month, so really looking for a combo prebuy/annual thing. Both shops that I would plan to use down the road in ownership are weeks out from being able to do this, so will look elsewhere. The owner is a physician and is eager to work out something, but with his schedule it needs to be a close trip for the delivery to the inspection site. So thoughts, recommendations?
Also, his Century IIb/STEC 60PSS autopilot combo has developed a severe list to the left (immediately turns about 30degrees left and just stays there). That needs to be addressed, so hopefully his shop does it, or the prebuy/annual place can. A functional autopilot is on my must have, or we renegotiate the sales price.
Logs looked great, the plane has been active. He has purchased a 2007 Cirrus and wants this one gone!