1976 Sundowner for sale
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Year: 1976
Make/Model: Beechcraft C23 Sundowner 180
Registration #: N2043L
Serial: M1856
Location: Crestview, FL (KCEW)
Total Time: Will be about 2300 as I am still flying it.
SMOH: About 800, again still flying.
Flight Rules: IFR (VOR, ILS, Garmin 430 non-WAAS), Century IIB Autopilot
ADS-B Compliant
# of seats: 4 (useful load is about 850 lbs)
Price: $83,000
My experience: Engine was replaced in 2000 with an overhauled one and it seems to have slowed down flying shortly after that. The guy I bought it from flew it regularly for a few years and I have flown it regularly as well since buying it in 2020. I got the shaft (literally) because I flew it for 13 hours and noticed something “off” about it. It ended up being a corroded camshaft so I replaced that and some other components. I have religiously added Camguard at every oil change and top-off and the engine has been running great since. The interior and exterior are about average for the age of the plane. Interior is probably in a little better condition than the paint. No tears in the seats or carpet. Lining is in good condition. Seat fabric is showing a little fading. Exterior could use some touch up as there are some spots where the paint has flaked off. All AD’s have been complied with and I have complete logs. Based on my calculations I get between 10 and 11 gallons an hour and plan on 115 knots for cruise in no wind conditions. The fuel gauges are typical of a Sundowner and I do not trust them. I had them looked at on multiple occasions and they are still erroneous. I ended up using a bead counter (included in purchase!) to count down with each tank change. This plane has taken us on some great adventures and I would prefer to keep it but I originally bought it as a time builder and have met that goal so the cost isn’t justified anymore.
There are a few items I wanted to add but replacing that camshaft really hit my flying budget. I would recommend an engine monitor. The donuts are still serviceable but are getting to the point of needing to be replaced. I have replaced the battery and starter and it starts very easily. Please excuse the long post but I want to be as open as possible and ensure that whoever is interested gets as much info as I can provide.