any tips? 582 Aquilla only used 26hrs in 3,5 yrs!!

[Zim Zulu]

Hi there, i wonder if anyone can give me advice on my recent purchase, aquilla 582 blue top, auto lube with only 26hrs in 3,5yrs.
it is an extremely clean machine and has been really looked after well!
i am back into flying after a 2 year break and and so excited to be able to follow my passion again, but really want to make sure i follow safety proceedures?
the old owner advices he has followed all the guidelines for looking after the motor ie removing plugs, applying oil, when not able to run for extended weeks.
what do i need to do when i get the unit home?
best regards
(Zulu mike zulu zulu)

[MADDOG]

My opinion is to fit new air filters. Clean out the autolube bottle,and pipes, fit new oil filter and fill with fresh oil. drain fuel,change filter and fill up. Check that all fuel lines are good and clamps secure. It might be a good idea to just fit new fuel pipes and clamps outright. Pay particular attention to the vucuum hose on the pump. Open the vacuum pump and clean it out. Remove and clean carbs. Fit new plugs. Premix oil at 50:1 in the fuel and use this as well as the auto lube for around first 25 hours. Fly the first 10 to 15 hours around the circuit within range of a good engine out spot as a precaution. Monitor
the temperture during this time. Remeber that the big end bearing may have corroded during storage and if is was, failure will most likely occur during the first 25 hours usage. Practice your engine outs and be ready for this just in case.

[Zim Zulu]

Thanks Maddog, appreciate the tips!! sheess i hope i have done the right thing......... past owner assures it has not been idle for more than 5 weeks at any time. it has been looked after well as i can see but i must admit i am a bit concerned on UNSEEN circumstances inside the engine.
in your mind what are the % chance of a prob? hard to guage i know but realistically? quite good?
really important i know what im dealing with. many thanks for your time, much appreciated.
regards Zim Zulu...

[MADDOG]

If stored in a hanger in JHB then I think the chances are almost zero of it failing - but always be better to take precautions just in case. I bought a 582 that had been standing for years I followed what I suggest above and 200 hours later it is still flying as if it was new. So I don't think you should worry, just be aware so that you can be prepared.

If it was standing at the coast, I would be a bit worried and be considering how close it is the mandatory crank rebuild.

[Zim Zulu]

Yes i appreciate your advice and i will follow it!!! keep you posted on developments!
the machine has been sitting at Komani club in Harare, and i know the last owner is very meticulis and has also followed proceedure. rather be safe than sorry so i will get prepared and hopefully have many hours of fantastic flying. Thanks Maddog will keep you posted!!

[Zim Zulu]

Just an update!!
Have the plane back on the farm now, and have done 8 hrs. All seems great and am so happy to be back in the air again!
thanks all for your help.

[Big Mac]

It seems that you made a good buy
Enjoy and fly safe

[MADDOG]

Great stuff.

Let us know when you are coming south to show it off.

[Zim Zulu]

LOL!! Maddog you very welcome to come up north to see it! add in some bass fishing too!! thanks allot for your advice, still watching guages like a hawk but we 12hrs in already and im sure i will get more comfy once we over 20..... thanks again