Owner assist Annuals in Norcal

[francisg]

Would anyone of the esteemed community in Northern California have any suggestion or experience with owner assist annuals? it is time for my 63 M20C, and i want to learn as much as i can. I am also pretty handy with a wrench when necessary. Thanks 

Francis G

[Tom]

Why not LASAR?  Probably not an inexpensive venture the first time, but if you fix what needs fixing and take copious notes you'll probably come out further ahead through your entire period of ownership.

[bonal]

This based on first hand knowledge LASAR will give you great service and because they have never seen your airplane a very detailed and thorough inspection. They do permit owner assist and I would highly recommend it for reasons you already state.  I have come to the conclusion however that you wont save yourself as much money doing the grunt work as you would expect. its still fun to get into the workings of your Mooney and see what makes it tick.  But forget any stories about annuals costing under 2K isn't going to happen but remember you get what you pay for and they absolutely know their way around a Mooney and they are great to work with.

 

Good luck annuals suck, hey that rhymes

 

[RangerJim]

I can also recommend LASAR at 1O2 (Lampson Field) in Lakeport CA.  They have allowed me to participate in "owner hindered annuals" the last few years and I have learned a lot from Paul and Sherry and their crew.  Be prepared to spend copious amounts of time getting your records sorted out and, as Tom suggests, figure on spending some AMU's the first time through.  You will not save any money, I can assure you, but no corners will be cut that will affect airworthiness. You will leave with a very thoroughly gone through aircraft, a detailed invoice, organized records, and top of the line experience.

 

I also have heard many maintenance savvy Mooniacs recommend Top Gun in Stockton, CA as an outstanding shop but they advised me that their insurance prohibits owner participation so they may not meet your requirements.  Wouldn't hurt to check with them as things may have changed. 

 

I don't think you can go wrong at either shop.  LASAR maintains an incredible parts inventory that can save you days of downtime.

 

Hanging out with Dan and his cronies at the Lakeport Club in the evenings is half the fun.  I usually stay at the Skylark Motel.

[Guest]

Premium service costs only a small amount more than other service. However if you consider a portion as education for the owner, the balance becomes increased value in your plane.

Increased maintenance pedigree earns increased value at future sale in my experience.

Clarence