T-28A info...

[svcta]

I'm going to look at an 'A' model T-28 in a couple of days for a possible purchase. I feel like we've got a pretty good handle on what to look for, but would love some input from anyone here with experience.

This particular airplane has about 2000TT,300 SMOH, prop inspection due October of next year (but a/c has always been hangared and passed last inspection). Flown regularly.

If we get a hold of it we will base the a/c on a very smooth grass runway that is 3000' long.

What are your thoughts on this type and what should I be looking for during my visit?

Thanks to all in advance!

 

[Hung Start]

I would just be a bit curious of 2,000 TT. Most worked pretty regular when in the service. That time would raise a flag for me. My B model has over 11,000 hours, and had over 10,000 hours when released from service. Seeing that the airframe must be close to 50 years old or more, that is only 40 hrs per year.

Hung

 

[svcta]

Actually, the bulk of the A models are really, REALLY low time. The Air Force only flew them for a short period of time before they upped the H.P. for the better performance. So they were used very little. To us it's part of the attractive picture of the A models relative to the B's and C's. Cheaper to run and airframes that are virtually unused.

 

[727C47]

I have a total of 1 hour of T-28A time,logged back in '06, a wonderful airplane, and that 800hp mill up front will be a lot more gas friendly than the B,and C versions. A joy to fly ! you are blessed !

 

[Frozen Ronin]

Hmph. No hook.

 

[727C47]

yeah,well,next CARQUAL will be in another life...

 

[A-Track]

It's been like a week now, so did you buy it?

 

[svcta]

We took a look and it's a rock solid airframe. We're considering an offer right now. Low time on an old overhaul (which are really, really expensive) and some TLC needed in the pits has us thinking about how much we would give for it. It's got all the mods that you want (pre oiler, scavenge, cleveland brakes, etc) so that's a plus.

I'll keep you posted.....

 

[wmudriver]

Good luck.

I hope to get my hands on a T-28 some day.

 

[Diesel]

Where is it located? My father in law is a professional in t28's and delivers them all over the place and can probably give you an honest report on it.

 

[propsarebest]

Most -A models were converted to -D models.

A true A model is a treat to get.

 

[svcta]

Indeed, good A models are hard to find. The current owner of the one that we're looking at is raising the price on us. We no likey. So, the search continues.

Odd bargaining tactic. We make an offer and he countered with a price that was higher than original.

 

[svcta]

Update for those who were interested.

I guess as of today we have struck a deal over the T-28A in question. Pending a good pre-purchase we've got an acceptable price and are moving forward. It's looking like a go for us on this thing.
Hoping for the pre-buy to go well. .....

We've got a T-28 guru of sorts doing the inspection for us. Anyone got any pointers for me?

Thanks!

 

[svcta]

What can any of you tell me about a 3000' runway with an A model?

 

[Cambereffect]

We need pictures!! The T-28 is one of my favorite planes of all times.

3000' isn't too bad for the 28s. I "knew" someone in the Chicago/Southern Wisco border who operates two of them and he had no problems going in and out of a 2800 narrow strip (Galt Airport 10C). Depending on weight and all he would do a rolling or brake release takeoff.

 

[svcta]

The latest news is that we ended up with an "F" model. We found a deal on one that left us with no real choice but to end up with the extra performance.

It's a done deal and I can't wait to get my hands on that sucker. We're working on where and with whom do do our training for the type rating. Think we've found a local guy that can do it, which will be nice.

Anyone with fuel money PM me and we will go fly.......